The longest straight, or more accurately, the longest continuous full-throttle section in contemporary Formula 1, is found at the Baku City Circuit in Azerbaijan. This segment stretches for approximately 2.2 kilometers, running from the exit of Turn 16 to the braking point for Turn 1.
Significance and Characteristics
This extensive flat-out zone significantly influences race dynamics:
- It enables some of the highest top speeds recorded during an F1 season.
- It acts as a primary overtaking opportunity, heavily utilizing the Drag Reduction System (DRS) and slipstream effect.
- It places power units under sustained maximum operational stress.
While other circuits such as the Shanghai International Circuit (featuring a back straight of approximately 1.2 to 1.4 kilometers) and Spa-Francorchamps (with its iconic Kemmel Straight) also boast significant straights, Baku’s is notable for its sheer length and the duration cars maintain full throttle. The Monza Circuit, though renowned as the “Temple of Speed” due to its multiple long straights contributing to extremely high average speeds, does not feature a single straight comparable in outright length to Baku’s main straight.
