Turkey is poised 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 last hosted the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic‑induced reshuffle of the F1 timetable, will now re‑enter the championship alongside Portugal’s Portimão, which is also returning for the upcoming season. These additions come as the Dutch Grand Prix will be dropped after this year, and the historic venues of Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will shift to a biennial rotation, meaning each will host a race every other year.
Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed his enthusiasm, 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 went on to highlight 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 and quickly became famous for its demanding Turn 8—a rapid sequence of left‑hand corners that drivers treat as a single, high‑speed element. The corner subjects drivers to extreme lateral G‑forces, testing both their skill and physical endurance, particularly the strength of their necks. Brazilian driver Felipe Massa dominated the early years, winning three consecutive Turkish Grands Prix from 2006 to 2008.
The circuit also provided drama in 2010 when Red Bull teammates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber collided, a moment that still sparks debate among fans. After disappearing from the calendar after 2011, Istanbul Park made a surprise return in 2020 as part of a revised schedule that accommodated the COVID‑19 disruptions. That race is remembered for Lewis Hamilton’s masterful performance in treacherous, rain‑soaked conditions, which secured his seventh world title—a record‑tying achievement. The following year, 2021, saw another wet‑weather spectacle, with Valtteri Bottas taking his most recent F1 victory amid slippery track conditions.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the news, describing the nation’s re‑entry as a testament to Turkey’s strong organisational capabilities, modern sports and healthcare infrastructure, and the famed hospitality of its people. He pledged that Turkey would deliver “flawless organisation in every respect,” echoing the country’s track record of hosting successful international events.
The re‑addition of Turkey brings the total number of circuits with confirmed contracts for 2027 to 24. Historically, the last three F1 calendars—including the original schedule for this year—have each featured 24 races, meaning that any brand‑new venues are unlikely to appear until at least 2028.
Nevertheless, speculation continues about potential expansions into new markets. Bangkok, Thailand, and an African Grand Prix have both been floated as future possibilities, though neither has yet materialised. Africa’s last F1 outing was the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami.
Recent talks have hinted at a revival, with Stefano Domenicali meeting Rwandan officials in 2024 to explore the feasibility of a Kigali Grand Prix. Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has been an outspoken advocate for an African round, stating that he intends to stay in the sport until such a race is secured. He explained, “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?” Hamilton, who has African heritage, added that he feels a personal connection to the continent and would love to see a race there before he retires. Hamilton also shared his personal favorites among the African locations he has visited, praising Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa for their beauty and potential as race venues.
He suggested that, given there is already a Grand Prix on every other continent, Africa deserves its own slot on the calendar. Looking ahead, the 2026 season will feature a full slate of races, with the Miami Grand Prix slated to kick off the second Sprint weekend on May 1‑3, broadcast live on Sky Sports F1. Fans can stream the event via NOW without a long‑term contract, and additional coverage—including podcasts, video highlights and real‑time updates—will be available through Sky Sports’ WhatsApp channel.
In summary, Turkey’s return to the Formula 1 world marks a significant milestone for both the sport and the host nation. The five‑year deal ensures that Istanbul Park will once again challenge drivers with its iconic Turn 8 and provide spectators with a blend of high‑speed action and cultural richness. As the F1 community looks forward to the 2027 calendar, discussions about future expansions into Asia and Africa continue, promising an ever‑more global and diverse championship in the years to come.