Turkey is slated to make a comeback on the Formula 1 schedule beginning in 2027, secured by a fresh five‑year agreement that will see Istanbul Park host Grand Prix racing once again. The circuit, which last featured the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic‑induced reshuffle of the F1 timetable, will re‑enter the roster alongside Portugal’s Portimão, which is also returning for the upcoming season. These additions come as the Dutch Grand Prix will be absent after this year, and the historic venues of Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will shift to a biennial rotation, each hosting a race every other year.
Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed enthusiasm about the news: “We are thrilled to be back in the dynamic, vibrant city of Istanbul from 2027 onward, delivering excitement to fans in Turkey and around the globe on one of the sport’s most demanding and exhilarating circuits. Istanbul stands as a cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, blending deep‑rooted history with a forward‑looking spirit in sport, business, and entertainment.” Istanbul first entered the Formula 1 calendar in 2005, quickly becoming famous for its long Turn 8—a sweeping, high‑speed left‑hand sequence that is effectively treated as a single corner. The section subjects drivers to intense lateral G‑forces, testing both their skill and neck strength.
Brazilian driver Felipe Massa dominated the early years, winning three consecutive Turkish Grands Prix from 2006 to 2008. The circuit also produced a dramatic moment in 2010 when Red Bull teammates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber collided at Turn 8, sparking one of the most talked‑about incidents in recent F1 history.
After disappearing from the schedule after 2011, Istanbul Park made a surprise return in 2020 as part of a revised calendar. That race was notable for a rain‑soaked showdown in which Lewis Hamilton secured his seventh world championship, tying Michael Schumacher’s record at the time. The following year, the 2021 Turkish Grand Prix, also affected by wet conditions, saw Valtteri Bottas claim his most recent Formula 1 victory, adding another memorable chapter to the circuit’s lore.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the decision, stating, “Turkey’s re‑entry into the Formula 1 calendar reflects the strong confidence the world places in our nation—our robust organisational capabilities, modern sporting and healthcare infrastructure, and the renowned hospitality of the Turkish people. We will honour this trust by delivering flawless organisation, just as we have done in the past.” With Turkey’s return confirmed, a total of 24 circuits now hold contracts for the 2027 season. The past three Formula 1 calendars, including the original plan for this year, each featured 24 rounds, meaning that any additional venues would not be introduced until at least 2028. Prospective new locations have been discussed, notably a potential race in Bangkok, Thailand, and a long‑awaited African Grand Prix.
Africa’s last Formula 1 event took place in 1993 at Kyalami in South Africa, and despite ongoing discussions—including recent talks between Domenicali and Rwandan officials in 2024 about a possible Kigali Grand Prix—no concrete agreement has yet been reached. Lewis Hamilton has been an outspoken advocate for bringing a Grand Prix to Africa. In a recent interview, he explained his personal motivation: “I don’t want to retire without having raced in Africa. I’ve been pushing the sport’s leadership for years to add a round there.
I’ve visited ten African countries, and I feel a strong connection, especially as I have African heritage.” Hamilton highlighted several nations that have left an impression on him, mentioning Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa as locations he would love to see host a race. He added, “There’s a Grand Prix on every other continent; why not Africa?
The sport is trying, and I think it’s only a matter of time before we see an African round.” The renewed Turkish Grand Prix will join a busy early‑season schedule that kicks off with the Miami Grand Prix from May 1‑3, which also serves as the second Sprint weekend of the year. Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports F1, with streaming options available through NOW without a long‑term contract.
As the 2027 calendar takes shape, the return of Istanbul Park promises to bring back the distinctive challenges of Turn 8, the passionate Turkish fanbase, and the unique cultural backdrop that makes the Turkish Grand Prix a standout event in the world of motorsport.