Turkey will return to the Formula 1 calendar next year in a five-year deal, bringing the popular Istanbul Park circuit back to the schedule after a four-year absence. The 5.33km track, which last hosted a race in 2021, will feature on the 2027 season, expected to include 24 races. The slot opened after Zandvoort confirmed this year's grand prix would be its last and Barcelona moved to a rotational agreement with Spa-Francorchamps.
Five-Year Agreement Announced
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the fresh contract covering 2027 to 2031 on Friday, expressing confidence in the country's ability to deliver a flawless event. "Formula 1 ranks among the world's foremost sporting events, distinguished by its spectacle, its young fan base, and its leadership in automotive technologies," he said. "In our country, too, Formula 1 enjoys a broad following across all age groups - especially among our youth - with a truly passionate fan base."
Erdogan added: "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."
Historic and Future Races
Turkey has hosted nine grands prix in total, debuting in 2005. The circuit is most famous for being where Lewis Hamilton sealed his record-equalling seventh F1 world championship in 2020. Valtteri Bottas won the last race in 2021. The return comes as Madrid prepares to host its first race this September with a semi-permanent street circuit. With the likely re-inclusions of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia (cancelled this month due to ongoing turmoil in the Gulf), the 2027 destinations are expected to remain largely the same, with Turkey and Portugal replacing the Netherlands and Barcelona.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali welcomed the announcement: "We are delighted to be returning to the incredible and vibrant city of Istanbul from 2027 to thrill all our fans in Türkiye and around the world on one of the most exciting and challenging circuits in Formula 1. As a city, Istanbul represents a cultural gateway between Europe and Asia, offering a unique blend of history and tradition with a forward-thinking approach to sport, business, and entertainment."
A host of other countries, including South Africa, Rwanda and South Korea, have shown interest in hosting a race, but the return to Istanbul has now been formalised.
