Formula 1 announces the return of Turkish Grand Prix from 2027 in long term Istanbul Park deal
F1 NewsFriday, 24 April 2026 at 14:14
Formula 1 has confirmed the return of the Turkish Grand Prix to the calendar from 2027, with Istanbul Park secured on a multi year agreement running through to 2031.
The deal, agreed with Türkiye’s Ministry of Youth and Sports, marks a significant expansion of the championship’s footprint in a key growth market.
The race will be delivered in partnership with the Turkish Automobile Sports Federation, bringing Formula 1 back to a circuit widely regarded as one of the most technically demanding layouts in the modern era. Istanbul Park last hosted races in 2020 and 2021, with Lewis Hamilton sealing his seventh world title there.
Istanbul Park returns with long term commitment
The 5.33 kilometre circuit, first introduced in 2005, quickly established itself as a driver favourite, particularly for its high speed, multi apex Turn 8. The venue has hosted 9 Grands Prix in total and remains one of the most respected tracks among drivers and teams.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed the return, stating: “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.”
Domenicali: Next chapter for a proven Formula 1 venue
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali framed the move as part of the sport’s global expansion strategy, highlighting both the circuit’s heritage and Türkiye’s growing fanbase.
“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 added: “Formula 1’s return to Türkiye is 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.
“My thanks to His Excellency, President of the Republic of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and to Eren Üçlertoprağı, President of FIA Member Club, the Turkish Automobile Sports Federation.
“Through this strong collaboration we are not only securing the long term future of Formula 1 in Türkiye, but also supporting the continued development of motorsport, strengthening the foundations for sustainable growth in the years to come.”
Strong fanbase and historic legacy underpin return
Türkiye has emerged as a key growth market for Formula 1, with nearly 19 million fans and rapidly expanding digital engagement. The sport’s social media footprint in the country continues to rise sharply, reinforcing its commercial and strategic value.
TOSFED president Eren Üçlertoprağı confirmed preparations are already underway: “I am very pleased to share that thanks to the unwavering support of our State and intensive efforts, we take great pride in announcing that we have secured the return of Formula 1 Turkish GP.
“In this regard, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to His Excellency Our President, our Minister of Youth and Sports, and our Minister of Culture and Tourism, as well as their respective ministries, for their invaluable support.
“We also extend our sincere thanks to the President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile FIA, His Excellency Mr. Mohammed Ben Sulayem and CEO of Formula 1, Mr. Stefano Domenicali.
“Preparations are already well underway for the race, scheduled for 2027. Thanks to utilising full strength of our State, we will work tirelessly to host an organisation worthy of Türkiye and Istanbul, performed in front of packed grandstands.”
With a proven track record, strong fan engagement, and a long term agreement in place, Istanbul Park’s return reinforces Formula 1’s push into high growth regions while restoring one of the sport’s most respected circuits to the calendar.
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