Turkey is slated to make a comeback on the Formula 1 timetable beginning in 2027, secured by a fresh five‑year agreement. The Istanbul Park circuit, which previously hosted the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic‑induced reshuffle of the schedule, will once again welcome the world’s premier single‑seater series. The return of Istanbul Park places it alongside Portugal’s Portimão venue as a revived stop on next year’s roster. These additions come as the Dutch Grand Prix will be dropped after the current season, while the historic circuits of Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will adopt a rotating, bi‑annual format.
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, delivering excitement to fans in Turkey and around the globe on one of the sport’s most demanding and exhilarating tracks.” He added that Istanbul serves as a cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, blending deep‑rooted tradition with a modern outlook on sport, business and entertainment. Istanbul first entered the F1 calendar in 2005 and quickly became famous for its long Turn 8 – a rapid succession of left‑hand corners that drivers treat as a single, high‑speed element. The corner’s intense lateral forces place a significant strain on drivers’ necks, making it a true test of physical endurance as well as skill. 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 unforgettable moments. After disappearing from the schedule after 2011, Istanbul Park re‑appeared in 2020 as part of a revised calendar. That race is remembered for a rain‑soaked showdown in which Lewis Hamilton clinched his seventh world title, matching Michael Schumacher’s record.
The following year, wet conditions again dictated the outcome, allowing Valtteri Bottas to secure 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 – in our organisational capabilities, modern sports and healthcare infrastructure, and the renowned hospitality of the Turkish people.” He pledged that Turkey would deliver flawless execution, as it has done in previous events. With Turkey’s inclusion, a total of 24 circuits now have confirmed contracts for the 2027 season. The past three Formula 1 calendars, including this year’s original plan, each featured 24 races, meaning that any brand‑new venues are unlikely to join until at least 2028.
Potential future locations have been discussed, notably Bangkok in Thailand and an African venue. Africa’s last Grand Prix took place in 1993 at Kyalami, South Africa, and despite various proposals, a return has not yet materialised. Domenicali has engaged with Rwandan officials in 2024 about a possible race in Kigali, signalling ongoing interest in expanding the sport’s footprint on the continent. Lewis Hamilton, a five‑time champion, recently reiterated his desire to see a Grand Prix in Africa before he retires.
He told the media, “I don’t want to leave the sport without racing there. I’ve been pushing the bosses for years; I’ve visited ten African countries and I’m eager to see a race happen.” He highlighted Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa as locations he finds appealing, noting that Rwanda’s facilities impressed him the most. The upcoming Formula 1 season will kick off with the Miami Grand Prix from May 1‑3, featuring the second Sprint weekend of the year, and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1. Viewers can stream the coverage via NOW, with no long‑term contract required and the option to cancel at any time.
Overall, the revival of the Turkish Grand Prix marks a significant milestone for both the sport and the host nation, promising thrilling racing action on a circuit renowned for its technical challenges and its unique cultural setting.