Turkish Grand Prix to return to F1 in 2027

The calendar changes are set to continue in Formula 1, with the return of the Turkish Grand Prix scheduled for 2027.

The race was held at the Istanbul Park circuit in 2020 — where Lewis Hamilton secured his seventh Drivers’ Championship — and in 2021, as the COVID pandemic forced changes to the F1 calendar. The Turkish Grand Prix joins the Portuguese Grand Prix in returning to the pinnacle of motorsport and will run until 2031.

Formula 1 held races at Istanbul Park from 2005 to 2011, with Brazilian driver Felipe Massa holding the record for the most victories after three consecutive wins between 2006 and 2008.

It has been suggested that Turkey’s addition to the calendar will not increase the number of races beyond the scheduled 24. Other races, like Spa and Barcelona, will alternate each year to free up space.

“The races reach nearly 19 million people in our country”

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said: “Formula 1 ranks among the world’s foremost sporting events, distinguished by its spectacle, its young fan base, and its leadership in automotive technologies.

“In our country, too, Formula 1 enjoys a broad following across all age groups - especially among our youth - with a truly passionate fan base. The races reach nearly 19 million people in our country, while around 7.5 million follow them closely on social media.

“I hope that Turkey’s partnership with Formula 1 – as a country of motorsport – will continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.”

“One of the most exciting and challenging circuits in Formula 1”

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: “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.

"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.

F1 returns next weekend with the Miami Grand Prix.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Red Bull Content Pool