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 limelight. The circuit, which last hosted the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and again in 2021 during the pandemic‑induced reshuffle of the championship, will once more challenge drivers and thrill fans.
The return of Istanbul Park places it alongside Portugal’s Portimão, another venue re‑entering the roster for the upcoming season. These additions come as the Dutch Grand Prix will be dropped after the current year, while the iconic races at Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will shift to a biennial format, alternating each year.
Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed enthusiasm about the news: “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, offering a unique mixture of historic heritage and modern ambition in sport, business and entertainment. Istanbul first entered the F1 calendar in 2005 and quickly became famous for its demanding Turn 8 – a rapid succession of high‑speed left‑hand corners that effectively function as a single sweeping bend. The section is notorious for generating extreme lateral g‑forces, testing the drivers’ neck strength and stamina.
During the early years of the Turkish Grand Prix, Brazilian driver Felipe Massa dominated, winning three consecutive races from 2006 to 2008. The circuit also witnessed a dramatic clash in 2010 when Red Bull teammates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber collided, a moment that remains etched in F1 folklore.
After disappearing from the schedule after 2011, Istanbul Park made a comeback in 2020 as part of a revised calendar. That race is remembered for Lewis Hamilton’s masterful performance in treacherous, rain‑soaked conditions, which secured his record‑equalling seventh world title. The following year, the 2021 Turkish Grand Prix was again heavily affected by wet weather, with Valtteri Bottas taking the checkered flag for his most recent victory.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the development, 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. As Turkey, we will once again fulfil this trust by delivering flawless organisation in every respect, just as we have done in the past.” With Turkey’s re‑entry, the 2027 season will feature 24 contracted venues, matching the number of rounds that have been standard for the past three seasons. Consequently, any new Grand Prix is unlikely to appear before 2028, as the calendar is already at capacity. Potential future expansions have been discussed, including a race in Bangkok, Thailand, and a long‑awaited return to Africa.
The continent last hosted a Grand Prix in 1993 at Kyalami in South Africa, and recent attempts to revive an African round have yet to bear fruit. Domenicali has already engaged in talks with Rwandan officials in 2024 about a possible event in Kigali, signaling genuine interest in bringing F1 back to the continent.
Lewis Hamilton has been an outspoken advocate for an African Grand Prix. In a recent interview he revealed his desire to stay in the sport until a race is held there, noting, “I don’t want to leave the sport without having a Grand Prix in Africa, without getting to race there, so I’m chasing them: when is it going to be?” He emphasized the personal significance, saying, “I’m half African, so it would be amazing.” Hamilton also highlighted several African locations he admires, including Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, describing Rwanda as “spectacular” and South Africa as “stunning.” The renewed focus on expanding the global footprint of Formula 1 aligns with the sport’s broader strategy to tap emerging markets and diversify its fan base.
While the logistics of adding new venues are complex—requiring infrastructure, financial backing, and regulatory approvals—the enthusiasm from drivers, officials, and host nations suggests a promising future. Fans can look forward to the start of the 2027 season with the Miami Grand Prix scheduled for May 1‑3, which will also host the second Sprint weekend of the year. Coverage will be available live on Sky Sports F1, and viewers can stream the action through NOW without a long‑term contract, canceling at any time.
In summary, Turkey’s return to the Formula 1 calendar marks a significant milestone for both the championship and the host nation. Istanbul Park’s challenging layout, rich history, and strategic location promise to deliver memorable racing moments for years to come, while the ongoing dialogue about new venues in Asia and Africa hints at an increasingly global and inclusive future for the sport.