Turkey is slated to make a comeback on the Formula 1 calendar 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 a pandemic‑induced reshuffle, will now re‑enter the roster 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, while the historic venues of Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will adopt a rotating, bi‑annual format. Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed enthusiasm about 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 highlighted Istanbul’s unique position as a cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, noting that the city blends deep‑rooted history with a modern, forward‑thinking approach to sport, business, and entertainment.
Istanbul first entered the F1 programme in 2005 and quickly became famous for its demanding Turn 8 – a rapid succession of high‑speed left‑hand corners that effectively function as a single, sweeping bend. The section is notorious for testing drivers' physical endurance, especially their neck muscles, due to the intense lateral g‑forces generated at those speeds.
During the early years of the Turkish Grand Prix, Brazilian driver Felipe Massa dominated, winning three consecutive races from 2006 to 2008. The circuit also provided drama in 2010 when Red Bull teammates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber collided, an incident that remains a talking point among fans.
After a hiatus following the 2011 season, Istanbul Park returned in 2020 as part of a revised schedule, and that year Lewis Hamilton clinched a record‑tying seventh world title after a chaotic, rain‑laden race. The following year, 2021, saw another wet‑weather showdown, with Valtteri Bottas taking the victory.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan 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 reinstatement, the total number of circuits contracted for 2027 rises to 24.
The last three seasons, including the original 2024 schedule, have already featured 24 rounds, meaning that any new venues are unlikely to join until at least 2028. Speculation continues about potential expansions into new markets. Thailand’s Bangkok and an African venue have been mentioned as possible future hosts, though neither has secured a contract yet.
Africa’s last Grand Prix was held in 1993 at Kyalami in South Africa, and recent attempts to revive a South African race have not materialised. However, Formula 1 leadership has shown interest in the continent: Stefano Domenicali met with Rwandan officials in 2024 to discuss a possible Grand Prix in Kigali.
This aligns with the ambitions of current drivers. Lewis Hamilton recently revealed that he intends to stay in the sport until a race is held on African soil. He has been lobbying F1 executives for years, citing his personal connection to the continent and his desire to see a race there before he retires.
Hamilton explained, "I don't want to leave the sport without having a Grand Prix in Africa, without getting to race there, so I'm chasing them: when is it going to be?" He added that the timeline feels urgent, noting, "They're setting certain dates, I'm like, 'damn, I could be running out of time', so I'm going to be here for a while until that happens, because that would be amazing, given that I'm half African." He also praised several African locations he has visited, saying, "There's one on every other continent, why not Africa? I know they're really trying. The ones that I've enjoyed the most: I loved Kenya.
I don't think we're going to have a Grand Prix in Kenya, but Rwanda particularly was spectacular. Two places I felt like I could live.
South Africa is stunning. I think those are the ones I think would be good places for us to potentially go to." Beyond the political and sporting narratives, the return of Turkey adds a fresh dynamic to the 2027 season’s logistics.
Teams will need to adapt to the unique demands of Istanbul Park’s layout, especially the grueling Turn 8, which has historically been a decisive factor in race strategy and car setup. Engineers will likely focus on aerodynamic balance and cooling solutions to cope with the high‑speed corner and the often hot, humid conditions of late summer in Istanbul.
Fans can look forward to a renewed rivalry between manufacturers as they vie for supremacy on a track that rewards both outright speed and driver stamina. The five‑year deal also signals Formula 1’s commitment to diversifying its global footprint while preserving classic venues that have proven fan favourites. The 2026 race calendar, which will be the final season before Turkey’s re‑entry, remains packed with 24 events, and the sport continues to explore new markets while maintaining a balance between tradition and innovation. As the 2027 season approaches, anticipation builds not only for the return of Istanbul Park but also for the broader evolution of the championship as it seeks to engage new audiences across continents.
For those eager to follow every twist and turn, Sky Sports will broadcast the upcoming races, including the season‑opening Miami Grand Prix on May 1‑3, which also features the second Sprint weekend of the year. Viewers can stream the coverage via NOW, with flexible subscription options that allow cancellation at any time.