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 back in the championship mix. The venue, which previously hosted the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic‑induced reshuffle of the calendar, will now enjoy a longer‑term commitment.
The return of Istanbul Park places it alongside Portugal’s Portimão circuit as the two tracks re‑entering the roster for the upcoming season. Their inclusion comes as the Dutch Grand Prix is set to be dropped after the current year, while the historic circuits at Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will shift to a rotating, bi‑annual format rather than appearing every single year.
Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed enthusiasm for the news: “We are thrilled to be back in the vibrant, historic city of Istanbul from 2027 onward. Our fans in Turkey and around the globe will once again experience one of the most demanding and exciting circuits on the calendar.” He added that Istanbul serves as a cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, blending centuries‑old heritage 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, sweeping left‑hand sequence that effectively functions as a single, high‑speed corner. The bend subjects drivers to intense lateral g‑forces, testing both 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 witnessed a dramatic clash in 2010 when Red Bull teammates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber collided, underscoring the track’s reputation for producing memorable moments. After being dropped after the 2011 season, Istanbul Park made a surprise comeback in 2020 as part of a revised schedule.
That year, Lewis Hamilton clinched his record‑equalling seventh world title in a rain‑soaked race that highlighted the circuit’s unpredictable weather. The following year, the 2021 Grand Prix was again affected by heavy rain, allowing Valtteri Bottas to claim his most recent Formula 1 victory. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the announcement, stating, “Turkey’s return to the Formula 1 calendar reflects the strong confidence placed in our nation’s organisational capacity, modern sports and healthcare infrastructure, and the renowned hospitality of the Turkish people.” He pledged that the country would deliver flawless event management, just as it had in previous editions.
With Turkey’s reinstatement, a total of 24 circuits now hold contracts for the 2027 season. The last three F1 calendars, including the original plan for this year, have featured 24 races, meaning that any brand‑new venues are unlikely to appear before 2028.
Nonetheless, discussions continue about potential expansion into new markets. Bangkok in Thailand and an African venue have been floated as future possibilities, though neither has secured a firm place yet.
Africa’s last Grand Prix was held at Kyalami in South Africa in 1993, and despite periodic speculation about a return, no concrete steps have materialised. In 2024, Domenicali met with Rwandan officials to explore the feasibility of a race in Kigali, signaling ongoing interest in bringing the sport to the continent.
Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton has been vocal about his desire to see an African round, saying he will continue racing until such an event materialises. He explained, “I don’t want to retire without having a Grand Prix in Africa.
I’ve visited ten countries there and have been pushing the organisers for years.” Hamilton highlighted Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa as locations he admires and believes could host a successful race. The upcoming Formula 1 season kicks off with the Miami Grand Prix on May 1‑3, which will also serve as the second Sprint weekend of the year. The event will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, and fans can stream the coverage via NOW without a long‑term contract.
Overall, Turkey’s re‑entry into the championship not only restores a beloved circuit but also reinforces Formula 1’s strategy of balancing historic tracks with new markets. Istanbul Park’s challenging layout, rich history of dramatic races, and strategic geographic position make it a valuable addition to the sport’s global portfolio. As the 2027 calendar takes shape, the anticipation builds for how the revived Turkish Grand Prix will influence championship battles and fan engagement across both Europe and Asia.