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 spotlight. The circuit, which previously hosted the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and 2021 after the pandemic forced a reshuffle of the F1 timetable, will now enjoy a longer-term home on the world’s premier motorsport series. The revival of Istanbul Park places it alongside Portugal’s Portimão circuit as one of the returning venues for the upcoming season.
These additions come as the Dutch Grand Prix will be dropped after this year’s edition, while the historic tracks at Barcelona and Spa-Francorchamps will adopt a rotating format, each running every other year rather than annually. Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed his enthusiasm for the move: "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, blending centuries‑old heritage with a forward‑looking attitude toward 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 are treated as a single complex.
The corner subjects drivers to intense lateral g‑forces, testing both their skill and the strength of their 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 memorable clash in 2010 when Red Bull teammates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber collided, highlighting the track’s capacity for drama.
After disappearing from the schedule after 2011, Istanbul Park made a comeback in 2020 as part of a revised calendar. That race was notable for a rain‑soaked showdown in which Lewis Hamilton clinched his seventh world title, matching Michael Schumacher’s record. The following year, the 2021 Turkish Grand Prix was again affected by wet conditions, with Valtteri Bottas emerging victorious.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the news, 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 a flawless organisation in every respect, just as we have done in the past." With Turkey’s re‑entry, a total of 24 circuits now hold contracts for the 2027 season.
The last three F1 calendars, including the original plan for this year, each featured 24 rounds, meaning that any new venues are unlikely to be added before 2028. Nevertheless, speculation continues about potential expansion into new markets. Bangkok in Thailand and an African venue have both been floated as future possibilities, though neither has secured a place yet. Africa’s last Grand Prix took place in 1993 at Kyalami in South Africa.
Recent attempts to bring a race back to the continent have not yet materialised, but discussions are ongoing. In 2024, Domenicali met with Rwandan officials to explore the prospect of a Kigali Grand Prix.
Former world champion Lewis Hamilton has been vocal about his desire to see a race in Africa before he retires, noting his personal connections to the continent and urging the sport’s leadership to act. He said, "I don't want to leave the sport without having a Grand Prix there, without getting to race there, so I'm chasing them: when is it going to be?" He added that he feels a personal stake, describing himself as "half African" and expressing admiration for Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa as potential host nations. The upcoming Formula 1 season will kick off on May 1‑3 with the Miami Grand Prix, which also marks the second Sprint weekend of the year. Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports F1 or stream via NOW, with flexible subscription options that allow cancellation at any time.
In summary, Turkey’s five‑year deal secures Istanbul Park’s return to the Formula 1 roster from 2027 onward, reaffirming the circuit’s reputation for technical challenge and fan excitement. The move reshapes the broader calendar, removing the Dutch round, instituting a bi‑annual rotation for Barcelona and Spa, and keeping the door open for future expansion into Asia and Africa. As the sport continues to evolve, the re‑introduction of Istanbul promises fresh storylines, intense competition, and a celebration of the cultural crossroads that defines the city.