Formula One has announced that the Turkish Grand Prix will return to the calendar from the 2027 season on a five-year contract.
The race will remain at Istanbul Park, Istanbul, which previously hosted the race between 2005-11 before it was dropped due to financial disagreements between the race organisers and F1.
F1 however returned to the circuit in 2020 & 21 seasons due to disruption to the planned race calendars caused by the Coronavirus pandemic, which saw the race’s return in the former season become the scene of Sir Lewis Hamilton’s record-equalling seventh world title.
Drivers, teams and fans alike since called for the race to be reinstated as a permanent fixture on the calendar and after lengthy negotiations between Formula One Management, Turkish Government and race organisers, a five-year contract was negotiated covering 2027-31 seasons.
Turkey’s President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan has welcomed the race’s return as he spoke of how F1 unites people within Turkey, and how the decision from F1 to agree a return marks their confidence in the country’s ability to host a major sporting 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.
“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 9 times: 7 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 Türkiye’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 Türkiye, 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 Türkiye’s partnership with Formula 1 – as a country of motorsport – will continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.”
F1 President and CEO, Stefano Domenicali added: “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.
“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.”
FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem described the Turkish Grand Prix’s return as “… a powerful reflection of the continued global growth and appeal of our sport, and I am delighted to see the Turkish Grand Prix rejoin the FIA Formula One World Championship calendar.
“Istanbul Park is a circuit that holds a special place in Formula 1 history, and its return underlines our shared commitment to expanding the championship in dynamic markets.”
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