President Erdogan Confirms Five-Year Formula 1 Return to Istanbul Park Starting in 2027

President Erdogan confirms Istanbul Park will host the Turkish Grand Prix from 2027 to 2031, marking a major return for Formula 1 after a six-year absence.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 25, 2026, 6:03 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Anadolu Agency

The Restoration of a Motorsport Landmark

In a formal ceremony held at the Dolmabahce Presidential Office, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed that Istanbul Park has secured a long-term agreement to host the Turkish Grand Prix. The contract ensures the circuit’s presence on the Formula 1 schedule for five full seasons, beginning in 2027. Erdogan emphasized that the return of the world’s premier motorsport series reflects Türkiye's status as a premier destination for global sporting events. The 5.3-kilometer circuit, famous for its high-speed Turn 8, has not hosted a race since the pandemic-restricted 2021 edition, making this announcement a milestone for the country’s racing community.

Legacy of the Turkish Grand Prix

During his address, the President reflected on the historic significance of Istanbul Park, which first joined the Formula 1 calendar in 2005. He noted that the inaugural race set a Republic-era attendance record with over 110,000 spectators. Over its previous nine iterations—seven held between 2005 and 2011, and two during the COVID-19 pandemic—the circuit has become synonymous with record-breaking performances. Most notably, the 2020 Turkish Grand Prix served as the backdrop for Lewis Hamilton securing his record-equaling seventh world championship, a moment Erdogan cited as evidence of the track’s distinguished standing in the sport’s history.

Strategic Impact on Sports Diplomacy

The return of Formula 1 is viewed by the Turkish government as a critical tool for "global sports diplomacy." Communications Director Burhanettin Duran echoed the President's sentiments, stating that the mega-event will showcase Istanbul’s cultural richness and bolster the country’s brand value. According to government data, Formula 1 maintains a massive following in Türkiye, with approximately 7.5 million social media users actively engaging with the sport. By securing a multi-year deal, Ankara aims to capitalize on this domestic passion while signaling to the international community that the nation remains an "island of stability" for major commercial partnerships.