Formula 1 has announced that the Turkish Grand Prix is to return to the calendar from next year, in a major five-year deal with the Istanbul Park circuit.
The country has been pushing for its return to hosting F1 races again for some time, and its Ministry of Youth and Sports has finally reached an agreement with the sport to confirm its place back on the calendar.
Turkey first held a Grand Prix at the circuit, designed by Hermann Tilke, in 2005, and remained on the schedule until 2011, before returning in 2020 and 2021, as part of the afflicted Covid seasons.
The 3.3 mile circuit, which holds a 125,000 capacity, was widely popular with fans and drivers, likely ensuring a favourable view of its return.
In a statement released by F1, 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.
“We have hosted Formula 1 a total of nine times: seven races between 2005 and 2011, and two races during the COVID period in 2020 and 2021. Istanbul Park – particularly famous for its Turn 8 and a favourite among racing enthusiasts – will, Inshallah, once again host five seasons of exciting, high-quality races between 2027 and 2031.
“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. I extend my sincere congratulations to everyone who has contributed to bringing Formula 1 back to our country and to Istanbul.
“I hope that Turkey’s partnership with Formula 1 – as a country of motorsport – will continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.”
More ‘memorable moments’ set with F1 return to Turkey
F1’s CEO Stefano Domenicali 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.
“I want to thank His Excellency President Mr Erdoğan, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the Turkish Automobile Sports Federation for their support in securing Formula 1’s return.
“Many memorable moments have been made in our sport’s history at Istanbul Park and I’m excited to begin the next chapter of our partnership, giving fans the opportunity to experience even more incredible racing in a truly fantastic location.”
The Istanbul Park circuit was without a doubt one of the best of the more modern era tracks designed, and often ensured an enthralling race.
News of its return will be a welcome boost to F1 amid the current issues surrounding its controversial new regulations cycle.
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