Turkey is slated to make a comeback on the Formula 1 roster 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 schedule, will once again welcome the world’s premier open‑wheel series. The return of Istanbul Park places it alongside Portugal’s Portimão circuit as the two tracks re‑entering next year’s lineup.
These additions come as the Dutch Grand Prix will be omitted after the current season, while the iconic circuits at Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will shift to a biennial format, alternating each year. Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed enthusiasm for the move: “We are thrilled to be back in the dynamic and historic city of Istanbul from 2027 onward, delivering excitement to our Turkish fans and a global audience 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 tradition with a progressive outlook on 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 function as a single, high‑speed bend.
The corner subjects drivers to extreme lateral G‑forces, testing both skill and physical endurance, particularly the neck muscles. During the early years of the Turkish Grand Prix, Felipe Massa claimed three consecutive victories 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 propensity for high‑stakes action. 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, securing his seventh world championship – a record‑tying achievement. The following year, wet conditions again shaped the outcome, with Valtteri Bottas taking the checkered flag. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the news, stating, “Turkey’s re‑entry into the Formula 1 calendar reflects the strong confidence placed in our nation’s organisational capabilities, modern sports and healthcare infrastructure, and the renowned hospitality of the Turkish people.” He pledged that Turkey would deliver flawless event management, as it has done in the past. With Turkey’s reinstatement, a total of 24 circuits now hold contracts for the 2027 season.
The past three F1 calendars, including the original plan for this year, have each featured 24 rounds, meaning that any further expansion is unlikely before 2028. Potential new venues have been discussed, notably Bangkok in Thailand and an African race. Africa last hosted a Grand Prix in 1993 at Kyalami, South Africa, and recent attempts to bring the event back have not yet materialised. Domenicali has engaged with Rwandan officials in 2024 about a possible Kigali Grand Prix, signalling continued interest in the continent.
Lewis Hamilton recently voiced his desire to stay in the sport until a race lands on African soil. He explained that he has been lobbying F1 leadership for years, having visited ten African nations and advocating for a round on the continent.
“I don’t want to retire without racing in Africa,” he said. “When will it happen? I’m staying as long as it takes because it would be incredible for me, given my heritage.” Hamilton highlighted several African locations he admires, including Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, describing Rwanda as “spectacular” and noting that these destinations could serve as viable future Grand Prix sites. The 2027 calendar will kick off with the Miami Grand Prix on May 1‑3, featuring the season’s second Sprint weekend, and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1.
Fans can stream the coverage via NOW, with flexible, no‑contract subscriptions. Overall, Turkey’s re‑entry marks a significant milestone for Formula 1, reinforcing the sport’s global reach while honoring a circuit known for its technical challenges and passionate fan base.
The five‑year deal not only restores a beloved venue but also paves the way for future discussions about expanding the championship into new regions, particularly Africa, as the sport continues to evolve and grow worldwide.