Turkish Grand Prix to return to F1 calendar in 2027

The Turkish Grand Prix will return to the Formula 1 calendar on a five-year deal, starting in 2027.

F1 raced at Istanbul Park from 2005 until 2011, and then made two further visits in 2020 and 2021 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the race schedule. Since then, there have been regular discussions with the promoter keen to secure a permanent slot on the calendar, and the sport has now confirmed a long-term contact has been signed that will see races held until 2033.

“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,” F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said. “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. [Recep Tayyip] Erdogan, 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.”

As it stands, the announcement means there will be at least 24 races on the schedule next season, with Turkey, officially the Republic of Türkiye, joining Portugal – also a race rekindled after stepping in during the COVID-19 years – in being added to the calendar. Only the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort has a contract that expires this year, but two other grands prix will alternate beyond this season.

The Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix will be held this June but is operating on a biennial basis after this year, being held in 2028, 2030 and 2032, in rotation with the Belgian Grand Prix in 2027, 2029 and 2031.

“Formula 1 ranks among the world’s foremost sporting events, distinguished by its spectacle, its young fan base, and its leadership in automotive technologies,” Turkish president Erdogan 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. 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 favorite among racing enthusiasts – will, Inshallah, once again host five seasons of exciting, high-quality races between 2027 and 2031.

“I regard Türkiye's return to the Formula 1 calendar as a clear reflection of the strong confidence placed in our country – in our robust organizational capacity; in our modern sports and healthcare infrastructure, and, of course, in the renowned hospitality of the Turkish Nation.

“As Türkiye, we will once again fulfill this trust by delivering a flawless organization 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 Türkiye’s partnership with Formula 1 – as a country of motorsport – will continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.”