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 venue that last 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 return of Istanbul Park places it alongside Portugal’s Portimão circuit, which is also slated to reappear on next year’s roster. These additions come as the Dutch Grand Prix will be dropped after the current season, while the historic circuits at Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will shift to an alternating, bi‑annual format.
Stefano Domenicali, president of the sport’s governing body, expressed enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to be back in the dynamic and historic city of Istanbul from 2027 onward, delivering excitement to our fans in Turkey and around the globe on one of Formula 1’s most demanding tracks.” He added that Istanbul serves as a cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, blending centuries‑old heritage with a forward‑looking spirit in 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‑g element, putting extreme strain on neck muscles.
Brazilian driver Felipe Massa dominated the early years, winning three consecutive Turkish Grands Prix from 2006 to 2008. The circuit also witnessed the dramatic 2010 clash between Red Bull teammates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber. After disappearing from the schedule after 2011, Istanbul Park returned in 2020 as part of a revised timetable.
That race saw Lewis Hamilton clinch his record‑equalling seventh world championship in a chaotic, rain‑soaked event. The following year, wet conditions again shaped the outcome, with Valtteri Bottas taking his most recent victory.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the news, stating, “Turkey’s re‑entry onto the Formula 1 calendar reflects the strong confidence placed in our nation – in our organisational capabilities, modern sports and health infrastructure, and the renowned hospitality of the Turkish people. We will once more honour that trust by delivering flawless execution, as we have done before.” With Turkey’s inclusion, a total of 24 circuits now hold contracts for the 2027 season.
The last three championship calendars, including the original plan for this year, each featured 24 rounds, meaning that any further new venues would not be added until at least 2028. Prospective locations such as Bangkok in Thailand and a yet‑unnamed African venue have been discussed, but neither has secured a place 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 yet materialised, although Stefano Domenicali held discussions with Rwandan officials in 2024 about a potential event in Kigali.
Lewis Hamilton, who is half‑African, has been vocal about his desire to see a race on the continent before he retires. He told the media, “I don’t want to leave the sport without a Grand Prix in Africa. I’ve been urging the bosses for years – I’ve visited ten countries there.
I could be running out of time, so I’ll stay as long as it takes.” Hamilton 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 myself living. If they bring a Grand Prix to the continent, it would be amazing.” The 2027 calendar will therefore feature a blend of returning classics and newly confirmed venues, with Istanbul Park poised to deliver its signature high‑speed challenges to a fresh generation of drivers and fans.
The race weekend in Turkey is expected to attract global attention, showcasing the country’s modern infrastructure and its unique position at the crossroads of East and West. Formula 1’s season will kick off on May 1‑3 with the Miami Grand Prix, which also serves as the second Sprint weekend of the year.
Sky Sports F1 will broadcast the event live, and viewers can stream the coverage via NOW without a long‑term contract, cancelling at any time. The return of Turkey adds another exciting chapter to the sport’s ever‑evolving global narrative, promising thrilling on‑track action and a celebration of Istanbul’s rich cultural tapestry.