Fernando Alonso predicts the Baku street circuit will be the "most memorable" on the calendar this year ahead of its first Grand Prix of Europe.

Alonso has been named an ambassador for Azerbaijan's first F1 race, which will be held on a streets of the capital on June 19. The Spaniard conducted a track walk around the tight uphill section from turns 8-12 which goes through the Old Town part of the city.

The McLaren driver thinks the Baku race could be one of the stand-out circuits on the calendar.

"It's a real honour for me to be the first F1 driver to visit this magnificent city," Alonso said. "The welcome I have received from everyone since my arrival has been wonderful. I have been really impressed with everything I have seen today.

"I feel absolutely confident in saying that Baku City Circuit is going to be the most memorable circuit on the F1 calendar this year. Much like this beautiful city, it successfully manages to showcase its modernity with a lovely nod to the past. Indeed, the way the track stretches along the Old Town walls with the magnificent Flame Towers in the background is a clear example of this.

"On a technical level, I am excited to test my skills on such a challenging circuit, in particular along those tight, winding corners. I really can't wait to race here this summer."

Last week Pirelli announced it will take the medium, soft and super-soft tyre, despite introducing a softer compound for street races. The tyre manufacturer revealed there is not enough data about Baku's tarmac to use the purple-striped ultra-soft tyre.