Drivers mixed on Baku circuit

Drivers have given mixed first impressions of the Baku City Circuit, which will host its first Formula One race this weekend.

The long straights and wide parts of the track drew criticism from reigning world champion Lewis Hamilton who dismissed the track's designation of 'street circuit'.

"Street circuit? I think Monaco is a street circuit," said the Mercedes driver. "It (Baku) is so wide in some places - I don't know why they do circuits like this. But I hope it's exciting."

Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel was more positive, saying: "I thought it has a few interesting parts and some other more simple parts," said the German. "At least it will be hotter than in Canada!"

Meanwhile Toro Rosso's Daniil Kvyat said the circuit reminded him of the Valencia Street Circuit which hosted the European Grand Prix between 2009-2013, while Williams driver Felipe Massa drew comparisons with the Russian Grand Prix venue in Sochi.