Turkey is poised to make a comeback on the Formula 1 schedule beginning in 2027, secured by a fresh five‑year agreement. The Istanbul Park circuit, which previously hosted the Turkish Grand Prix in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic‑induced reshuffle of the calendar, will once again welcome the world’s premier single‑seater series. The reinstatement of Istanbul Park places the venue alongside Portugal’s Portimão as a returning track for the upcoming season.
These additions come as the Dutch Grand Prix will be dropped after this year’s edition, while the iconic circuits of Barcelona and Spa‑Francorchamps will move to a biennial rotation, each running every other year. Stefano Domenicali, the president of Formula 1, expressed enthusiasm for the news: “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, offering a distinctive mix of historic heritage and a forward‑looking spirit in 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 left‑hand corners that effectively act as a single, high‑speed bend. The section tests drivers’ neck muscles with sustained g‑forces and has produced some of the most memorable moments in recent motorsport history.
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 unforgiving nature. After a hiatus following the 2011 season, Istanbul Park returned in 2020 as part of a revised schedule. That year, Lewis Hamilton secured his seventh world title – a record‑equalling achievement – after a chaotic, rain‑soaked race that tested strategy and driver skill.
The following year, 2021, saw another wet‑weather showdown, with Valtteri Bottas claiming his most recent Formula 1 victory. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the decision, 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.” He pledged that Turkey would deliver flawless organization, echoing the country’s successful hosting of past events. With Turkey’s re‑entry, a total of 24 circuits now hold contracts for the 2027 season. The last three Formula 1 calendars, including the original schedule for this year, featured 24 rounds, meaning that any further expansion would likely not occur until 2028 at the earliest.
Potential new venues have been discussed, notably Bangkok in Thailand and a yet‑unnamed African location. Africa’s most recent Grand Prix was held at Kyalami in South Africa back in 1993, and despite periodic talks about a return, no concrete plans have materialised.
Domenicali has engaged with Rwandan officials in 2024 to explore the possibility of a Kigali Grand Prix, reflecting the sport’s interest in tapping the continent’s growing fan base. Lewis Hamilton has been an outspoken advocate for an African round. In a recent interview he said he intends to stay in Formula 1 until the sport adds a Grand Prix on the continent, noting his personal connection as a driver of mixed heritage.
He recounted visits to ten African nations and highlighted his favourite experiences in Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa, describing them as places he could envision living and racing. The upcoming Formula 1 season kicks off with the Miami Grand Prix from May 1‑3, which will also host the series’ second Sprint weekend. Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports F1, with streaming options available through NOW without a long‑term contract. Overall, Turkey’s return marks a significant milestone for both the nation and the championship.
The five‑year deal not only restores a beloved venue but also reinforces Formula 1’s strategy of balancing historic tracks with emerging markets, ensuring a diverse and globally appealing calendar for years to come.