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 rotation. The circuit last hosted the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and again in 2021, when the global pandemic forced a reshuffle of the F1 timetable.
Now, alongside Portugal’s Portimão, which is also returning, Istanbul will re‑enter the lineup as the Dutch Grand Prix bows out after the current season. In addition, the iconic venues of Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will adopt a biennial format, alternating each year to keep the calendar fresh. Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed enthusiasm for the move: "We are delighted to be returning to the incredible and vibrant city of Istanbul from 2027 to thrill all our fans in Turkey and around the world on one of the most exciting and challenging circuits in Formula 1." He added that Istanbul serves as a cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, blending deep‑rooted history with a forward‑looking approach to sport, business and entertainment.
Istanbul first entered the F1 roster in 2005 and quickly became famous for its daunting Turn 8 – a sweeping series of high‑speed left‑hand corners that are effectively treated as a single, relentless bend. The corner subjects drivers to extreme lateral G‑forces, testing the strength of their necks and their concentration. Brazilian driver Felipe Massa dominated the early years, winning three consecutive Turkish Grands Prix from 2006 to 2008.
The circuit also produced one of the most dramatic moments in recent memory when Red Bull teammates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber collided on the opening lap of the 2010 race. After a brief hiatus following the 2011 season, Istanbul Park returned in 2020 as part of a revised calendar. That year, Lewis Hamilton secured a record‑equalling seventh world championship in a rain‑splattered race that highlighted the circuit’s unpredictable weather.
The following year, 2021, saw another wet‑affected Grand Prix, with Valtteri Bottas taking the checkered flag for his most recent F1 victory. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the announcement, stating, "I regard Turkey's return to the Formula 1 calendar as a clear reflection of the strong confidence placed in our country – in our robust organisational capacity; in our modern sports and healthcare infrastructure; and, of course, in the renowned hospitality of the Turkish Nation." He pledged that Turkey would deliver flawless organization, echoing the professionalism shown in previous events.
With Turkey’s reinstatement, the 2027 calendar will feature 24 contracted venues. The past three seasons, including the original schedule for the current year, have also comprised 24 rounds, meaning that any additional new races are unlikely to appear before 2028. Speculation continues about potential expansions, with Bangkok in Thailand and an African venue frequently mentioned. Africa’s last Grand Prix was held at Kyalami in South Africa in 1993, and despite periodic discussions, a return has yet to materialise.
Domenicali has even met with Rwandan officials in 2024 to explore the possibility of a Kigali Grand Prix. Lewis Hamilton, a seven‑time world champion, has been an outspoken advocate for an African round. In a recent interview, he explained his personal motivation: "I don't want to leave the sport without having a Grand Prix there, without getting to race there, so I'm chasing them: when is it going to be?" He noted that he feels a personal connection to the continent, describing himself as "half African," and urged F1’s leadership to act.
Hamilton highlighted several African locations he admires, including Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, suggesting they could provide spectacular settings for future races. The upcoming season kicks off with the Miami Grand Prix, scheduled for May 1‑3, 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 options through NOW without a long‑term contract.
As the sport continues to evolve, Turkey’s return underscores Formula 1’s commitment to blending tradition with new opportunities, while the ongoing dialogue about expanding into Africa reflects a broader ambition to make the championship truly global.