Azerbaijan pushing ahead despite GP rumours

Amid swirling rumours, the promoter of F1’s newest race said Azerbaijan cannot wait for its inaugural grand prix.

Reports on Thursday suggested some authorities in the country are pushing for the race to be cancelled, as the Azerbaijan economy is being battered by the collapsing price of oil.

But race promoter Arif Rahimov on Thursday urged spectators to buy tickets for the race, scheduled in June on the historic streets of the capital Baku.

"We are full of enthusiasm and strongly believe that everyone will get an unforgettable impression of Baku and everything that makes our capital special," he said.