Turkey is slated to make a comeback on the Formula 1 schedule beginning in 2027, secured by a fresh five‑year agreement. Istanbul Park, the circuit that previously hosted the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and 2021 when the calendar was reshuffled due to the Covid‑19 pandemic, will once again welcome the world’s premier single‑seater series.
The revival places Istanbul Park alongside Portugal’s Portimão, which also returns to the lineup for the upcoming season. These additions come as the Dutch Grand Prix will be dropped after this year’s edition, while the historic venues of Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will adopt a rotating format, each running every other year. Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to be back in the dynamic and vibrant city of Istanbul from 2027 onward, delivering excitement to our fans in Turkey and across the globe on one of the sport’s most demanding and exhilarating circuits.” He added that Istanbul serves 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 and quickly became famous for its long Turn 8—a sweeping series of high‑speed left‑hand corners that are treated as a single element.
The corner subjects drivers to intense lateral G‑forces, making it a true test of neck strength and endurance. 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, sparking one of the most talked‑about moments in recent F1 history. After disappearing from the schedule after 2011, Istanbul Park made a brief comeback in 2020.
That race was marked by torrential rain, and Lewis Hamilton clinched his record‑equalling seventh world championship in a chaotic, wet‑weather showdown. The following year, the 2021 Turkish Grand Prix was again heavily affected by rain, allowing Valtteri Bottas to secure his most recent victory in Formula 1.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the news, stating, “Turkey’s return to the Formula 1 calendar reflects the strong confidence placed in our nation—our organisational capabilities, modern sports and healthcare infrastructure, and the renowned hospitality of the Turkish people.” He pledged that Turkey would deliver flawless event management, echoing the high standards set during previous editions. With Turkey’s reinstatement, a total of 24 circuits now hold contracts for the 2027 season.
The last three Formula 1 calendars, including the original schedule for this year, have featured 24 rounds, meaning any new venues would not be added until at least 2028. Prospective locations such as Bangkok in Thailand and a yet‑to‑be‑confirmed African city have been discussed, but neither has secured a place on the timetable yet.
Africa’s last Formula 1 race took place in 1993 at Kyalami in South Africa. Recent attempts to revive an African Grand Prix have not materialised, although Domenicali held discussions with Rwandan officials in 2024 about a potential race in Kigali. Lewis Hamilton, who is half‑African, has been vocal about his desire to see a Grand Prix on the continent.
He told the media, “I don’t want to retire without racing in Africa. I’ve been urging the sport’s leadership for years, traveling to ten African countries, and I’ll keep pushing until a race happens.” Hamilton highlighted Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa as locations he admires, noting that Rwanda in particular left a lasting impression on him.
The upcoming Formula 1 season kicks off on May 1‑3 with the Miami Grand Prix, which will also feature 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, with the option to cancel at any time. In summary, Turkey’s re‑entry into the Formula 1 calendar marks a significant expansion of the sport’s global footprint. Istanbul Park’s challenging layout, rich history, and cultural significance make it a valuable addition, while the broader schedule adjustments reflect Formula 1’s ongoing evolution as it balances tradition with new market opportunities.