Iconic Istanbul Park set for F1 return from 2027
The Turkish Grand Prix will return to the Formula 1 calendar in 2027 at the beloved Istanbul Park circuit, thanks to a new five-year contract. Known for its epic Turn 8 and history of dramatic races, the track rejoins F1 alongside Portimao, reshaping the 2027 schedule as other European venues rotate or depart.
The fan-favorite Istanbul Park circuit is officially returning to the Formula 1 calendar, securing a five-year deal to host the Turkish Grand Prix from 2027 to 2031. The Hermann Tilke-designed track, renowned for its thrilling, multi-apex Turn 8, rejoins the schedule alongside the returning Portuguese Grand Prix at Portimao, filling slots created by other calendar changes.
Why it matters:
The return of a circuit celebrated for its challenging layout and history of dramatic races is a win for fans and driver skill. It represents a move towards rewarding pure racing quality over commercial guarantees alone, adding a proven and popular venue to F1's increasingly diverse global portfolio.
The Details:
- Historic Pedigree: Istanbul Park hosted F1 from 2005 to 2011, delivering iconic moments like Felipe Massa's emotional first win for Ferrari in 2006 and the intense 2010 Red Bull teammate collision between Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber.
- Proven Modern Relevance: The circuit proved its worth during two stand-in races in the COVID-affected 2020 and 2021 seasons. These events produced surprise results, including Lance Stroll's only F1 pole position and a podium for Sebastian Vettel in his final Ferrari season.
- The Turn 8 Legacy: The circuit's defining feature, the high-speed, quadruple-apex Turn 8, became so iconic that it inspired a similar corner complex at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
- Contract Terms: The new agreement is for a solid five-year run from 2027 through 2031, indicating a long-term commitment rather than a temporary fill-in role.
What's next:
The 2027 calendar is taking shape with significant changes. Istanbul and Portimao join as new additions, filling vacancies created by Zandvoort hosting its final race in 2026 and the Spanish Grand Prix at Barcelona beginning a rotation schedule with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps. The announcement was marked by a demonstration run from Red Bull reserve driver Yuki Tsunoda at the circuit.
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