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 previously hosted the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic‑induced reshuffle of the championship, will re‑enter the roster alongside Portugal’s Portimão, which is also returning for the 2025 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 move to a rotating, bi‑annual format. Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali expressed enthusiasm for the move, stating, “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 highlighted Istanbul’s unique position as a cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, noting that the city blends deep‑rooted history with a forward‑looking attitude toward sport, business, and entertainment.
Istanbul first entered the F1 calendar in 2005, quickly becoming famous for its demanding Turn 8 – a rapid succession of left‑hand corners that drivers treat as a single, high‑speed element. The corner subjects drivers to intense lateral G‑forces, testing both skill and physical endurance, particularly the neck muscles. Brazilian driver Felipe Massa dominated the early years, winning three consecutive Turkish Grands Prix from 2006 to 2008.
The circuit also produced a dramatic moment in 2010 when Red Bull teammates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber collided, sparking a memorable on‑track incident. After a hiatus following the 2011 season, Istanbul Park returned in 2020 as part of a revised schedule.
That race was marked by chaotic, rain‑soaked conditions, and it was during this event that Lewis Hamilton secured his seventh world title, tying the record for most championships. The following year, 2021, saw another wet‑weather showdown, with Valtteri Bottas taking the victory – his most recent win in Formula 1 to date. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the news, emphasizing that the nation’s return to the F1 calendar reflects confidence in Turkey’s organisational capabilities, modern sports and healthcare infrastructure, and renowned hospitality.
He pledged that Turkey would deliver “flawless organisation in every respect,” echoing the country’s past successes in hosting major international events. The re‑entry of Turkey brings the total number of circuits with confirmed contracts for the 2027 season to 24. Historically, the last three F1 calendars, including this year’s original plan, have featured 24 rounds, meaning that any new venues are unlikely to appear until at least 2028. Nevertheless, discussions about future expansion continue.
Prospective locations such as Bangkok in Thailand and a yet‑unnamed African venue have been floated, though neither has secured a place on the calendar yet. Africa’s last Grand Prix was held in 1993 at Kyalami in South Africa. Recent attempts to revive an African round have not yet materialised, though Stefano Domenicali held talks with Rwandan officials in 2024 about a possible race in Kigali. Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton, who is of mixed heritage including African roots, has been a vocal advocate for an African Grand Prix.
In a recent interview, Hamilton said he intends to stay in the sport until a race is held on the continent, noting that he has been urging F1’s leadership for the past seven years. He described his personal connection to Africa, recalling his favorite experiences in Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, and expressed hope that a future African venue could become a reality. The upcoming season kicks off with the Miami Grand Prix, scheduled for May 1‑3, which will also feature the second Sprint weekend of the year. Fans can watch live on Sky Sports F1 or stream via NOW, with the flexibility to cancel at any time.
As the championship continues to evolve, the return of Turkey adds another chapter to the sport’s global narrative, promising thrilling racing on a circuit renowned for its technical challenges and cultural significance.