Turkey is slated to make a comeback on the Formula 1 schedule beginning in 2027, secured by a fresh five‑year agreement. Istanbul Park, which previously hosted the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic‑induced reshuffle of the championship, will once again welcome the world’s premier single‑seater series. The circuit’s return places it alongside Portugal’s Portimão, another venue re‑entering the roster for the upcoming season.
These additions come as the Dutch Grand Prix will be dropped after this year, while the iconic circuits of Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will shift to an alternating, bi‑annual format. Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to be back in the vibrant, historic 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 tracks.” He highlighted Istanbul’s unique position as a cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, noting that the city blends deep‑rooted tradition with a forward‑looking attitude toward sport, business and entertainment.
Istanbul first entered the F1 calendar in 2005 and quickly became famous for its daunting Turn 8 – a rapid succession of left‑hand corners that drivers treat as a single, high‑speed element. The corner subjects drivers to extreme lateral G‑forces, testing both their skill and physical endurance, especially the strength of their necks. Brazilian driver Felipe Massa claimed three consecutive victories at the Turkish Grand Prix from 2006 to 2008, cementing the circuit’s reputation for rewarding bold, precise driving.
The track 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 calendar after 2011, Istanbul Park returned in 2020 as part of a revised schedule.
That race was memorable for Lewis Hamilton’s seventh world title, secured in a chaotic, rain‑soaked event that tested strategy and tyre management. The following year, the 2021 Turkish Grand Prix was again dominated by wet conditions, allowing Valtteri Bottas to claim his most recent Grand Prix win.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the news, stating, “Turkey’s return to the Formula 1 calendar reflects strong confidence in our nation’s organisational capabilities, modern sports and healthcare infrastructure, and the renowned hospitality of the Turkish people.” He pledged that Turkey would deliver a flawless event, echoing the professionalism shown in previous editions. With Turkey’s reinstatement, a total of 24 circuits now hold contracts for the 2027 season.
The past three F1 calendars, including the original schedule for this year, have each featured 24 rounds, meaning that any new venue would not be added until at least 2028. Speculation continues about potential expansions into new markets. Thailand’s Bangkok Grand Prix and a prospective African race have been discussed, though neither has materialised yet.
Africa’s last Formula 1 event took place in 1993 at Kyalami in South Africa, and recent attempts to bring the sport back to the continent have not yet succeeded. Nevertheless, Domenicali held talks with Rwandan officials in 2024 about a possible Grand Prix in Kigali.
Lewis Hamilton, a seven‑time world champion, recently reiterated his desire to see a race in Africa before he retires. He told reporters that he has been urging F1’s leadership for the past seven years, having visited ten African nations. “I don’t want to leave the sport without a Grand Prix there,” Hamilton said.
“I’m chasing it – when will it happen? They’re setting dates, and I feel the clock ticking, so I’ll stay as long as needed to make it a reality.” He added, “There’s a race on every other continent; why not Africa? I’ve loved Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa – they’re spectacular places where I could see a race thriving.” The upcoming Formula 1 season kicks off on May 1‑3 with the Miami Grand Prix, which will also host the second Sprint weekend of the year. Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports F1, and the network offers streaming through NOW with a flexible, no‑contract subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
In summary, Turkey’s five‑year deal ensures that Istanbul Park will once again be a fixture on the Formula 1 map from 2027 onward. The circuit’s storied history, challenging layout, and the city’s cultural allure promise to deliver thrilling races for drivers and spectators alike. At the same time, the sport continues to explore new horizons, with discussions ongoing about expanding into Africa and other emerging markets, keeping the future of Formula 1 both dynamic and globally inclusive.