Istanbul Park to host Formula 1 Turkey Grand Prix from 2027

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Formula 1 has confirmed the return of the Turkish Grand Prix to the sport’s calendar from 2027, with Istanbul Park securing a round of the world championship until the end of the 2031 season following a five-year agreement with Turkey’s Ministry of Youth and Sports.

The deal marks a long-awaited comeback for one of the sport’s most distinctive venues, with the Turkish Automobile Sports Federation (TOSFED) set to act as Formula 1’s official delivery partner for the events.

Istanbul Park last hosted a race in 2021, during a brief return prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, while its 2020 edition delivered a landmark moment as Lewis Hamilton clinched his seventh world title, matching Michael Schumacher’s all-time record.

A fan-favourite circuit returns

First introduced to the calendar in 2005, Istanbul Park quickly built a reputation as one of Formula 1’s most technically demanding circuits. Its 5.33km layout is defined by dramatic elevation changes and a relentless rhythm that tests both driver precision and car balance.

At its heart lies the iconic Turn 8, a sweeping, multi-apex left-hander widely regarded as one of the toughest corners in world motorsport. It remains a defining challenge, demanding commitment and finesse in equal measure.

Over the years, the track has produced memorable racing and a diverse list of winners.

Felipe Massa holds the record with three consecutive victories between 2006 and 2008 for Ferrari, while champions such as Kimi Räikkönen, Sebastian Vettel and Jenson Button have also triumphed there.

The most recent winner, Valtteri Bottas, took victory in 2021, joining Hamilton as the only current driver on the grid to have won at the venue.

Turkey has hosted nine Grands Prix to date, and its return reflects both the circuit’s enduring appeal and the country’s growing engagement with Formula 1. The sport now reaches nearly 19 million fans in Turkey, with a rapidly expanding digital audience that continues to grow across platforms.

A vision of hospitality and heritage

For Turkey, the return of Formula 1 is a matter of national pride and a testament to its world-class infrastructure. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan emphasized the deep connection between the Turkish youth and the technological pinnacle of motorsport.

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

"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.”

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Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting Istanbul’s unique position as a bridge between continents and cultures.

“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," said Domenicali.

"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.”

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.