Photo credit: @antoine
A Landmark Addition to the Baku City Circuit
At the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2025 in Baku (September 19–21), Archia unveiled a brand-new glass pedestrian bridge at Turn 1 of the Baku City Circuit. This dynamic corner, known for overtaking and dramatic racing moments, now features a striking architectural structure that combines safety, innovation, and the spirit of Formula 1.
Designed and built by Archia — an international architecture and design studio — the bridge has quickly become one of the most recognizable additions to the Baku Grand Prix. It not only improves pedestrian flow between the city and the paddock, but also offers fans a thrilling new way to experience Formula 1, watching cars race beneath their feet.
Architecture, Materials, and Design Innovation
The pedestrian bridge is a single-span steel structure without supports on the track. Its defining feature is the use of transparent glass panels along the sides and flooring, allowing spectators to see Formula 1 cars speeding underneath — a unique experience in global motorsport.
Inside, the bridge reflects the identity of Formula 1:
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High-strength steel frame engineered for dynamic loads.
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Tempered laminated glass with anti-glare coating for safety and clarity.
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Stretch ceiling with white LED lighting, creating a futuristic corridor of light.
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Interior in vivid red tones — including carpeting and details — echoing the official Formula 1 brand color.
This combination of white futuristic lighting and iconic red accents creates a powerful visual identity that links the bridge directly to the Formula 1 brand experience.
Engineering and Construction Challenges
Building the Formula 1 Baku pedestrian bridge presented unique challenges. Archia worked under a tight deadline, completing design, fabrication, and assembly within just a few months before the Grand Prix. The location in the heart of Baku — between the Absheron Marriott Hotel and the Government House — required close coordination with race organizers and city authorities to minimize disruptions and meet FIA safety standards.
Despite the compressed schedule, the project was delivered on time for the race weekend. The result is a structure that meets the demands of Formula 1 infrastructure while showcasing architectural innovation.
Integration with the Formula 1 Baku City Circuit
The bridge connects the city side with the paddock and hospitality areas, significantly improving logistics during the Grand Prix. Its transparent design ensures clear sightlines for fans and TV cameras, while its elevated span guarantees full safety for drivers.
Placed at one of the circuit’s most exciting corners, the glass pedestrian bridge has become a visual highlight of the Baku Grand Prix. It provides not just functionality, but also a dramatic new perspective of Formula 1 racing.
Global Reception and Social Media Impact
The bridge was an instant hit. Spectators were thrilled by the chance to stand on glass panels above the racing action, photographing and sharing their experiences widely on social media. Formula 1 drivers themselves posted images of the bridge, amplifying its presence across international platforms.
Today, the Archia-designed Formula 1 bridge in Baku can be seen in the posts of race fans, teams, and media outlets around the world. It has already become a symbol of the Baku City Circuit and a signature addition to the global Formula 1 fan experience.