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 championship fold. The circuit, which previously hosted the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic‑induced reshuffle of the F1 timetable, will re‑enter the roster alongside Portugal’s Portimão, which also returns next season. These additions come as the Dutch Grand Prix will be omitted after this year, and the historic venues of Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will shift to an alternating, bi‑annual format. Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed enthusiasm for the revival: “We are thrilled to be returning to the vibrant and extraordinary city of Istanbul from 2027 onward, delivering excitement to our Turkish fans and the global audience on one of the most demanding and exhilarating circuits on the calendar.” He highlighted Istanbul’s unique position as a cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, noting the city’s blend of deep‑rooted heritage and progressive outlook in sport, business, and entertainment.
Istanbul first entered the F1 program in 2005 and quickly became famous for its daunting Turn 8 – a rapid succession of high‑speed left‑hand corners that function as a single, sweeping element. The turn 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 witnessed a dramatic clash in 2010 when Red Bull teammates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber collided, underscoring the track’s reputation for producing high‑tension moments. After a hiatus that began in 2012, Istanbul Park resurfaced on the calendar in 2020.
That year, Lewis Hamilton captured a historic, rain‑soaked victory that secured his seventh world title, tying the record held by Michael Schumacher. The following year, the 2021 race, again plagued by wet conditions, saw Valtteri Bottas claim his most recent Grand Prix win, adding another memorable chapter to the venue’s lore. 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—our robust organisational capabilities, modern sports and healthcare infrastructure, and the renowned hospitality of the Turkish people.” He pledged that Turkey would once more deliver flawless execution, as it has in past events. The re‑addition of Turkey brings the total number of circuits with confirmed contracts for the 2027 season to 24.
Historically, the last three F1 calendars—including the original schedule for the current year—have each featured 24 rounds, meaning that any brand‑new venues are unlikely to appear until at least 2028. Nonetheless, speculation continues about future expansions.
Potential new hosts such as Bangkok, Thailand, and an African venue have been discussed, though neither has secured a place yet. Africa’s last Grand Prix took place in 1993 at Kyalami in South Africa. Recent attempts to revive a South African round have not materialised, but F1 leadership remains engaged with the continent.
In 2024, Stefano Domenicali met with Rwandan officials to explore the possibility of a Kigali Grand Prix, signaling ongoing interest in bringing the sport to new African markets. Lewis Hamilton, a seven‑time world champion, has been an outspoken advocate for an African race.
He recently revealed his intention to stay in Formula 1 until the sport secures a Grand Prix on the continent. “I don’t want to retire without having raced in Africa,” Hamilton said.
“I’ve visited ten African countries and I’m pushing the bosses for years now. When will it happen?” He added that he feels a personal connection, noting his African heritage and his desire to see the sport grow there. Hamilton also shared his favorite African locations: “Kenya was incredible, Rwanda was spectacular—both feel like places I could live.
South Africa is stunning as well. Those are the venues I think would make great Grand Prix sites.” His comments have added momentum to the conversation about expanding F1’s global footprint. The 2027 calendar, now featuring Istanbul Park, will kick off with the Miami Grand Prix on May 1‑3, which also hosts the season’s second Sprint weekend.
Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports F1, with streaming options available through NOW without a long‑term contract. As the sport continues to evolve, Turkey’s return underscores Formula 1’s commitment to blending historic circuits with emerging markets, ensuring a diverse and thrilling schedule for years to come.