Turkey intends to return to the Formula 1 calendar

• Turkey intends to return to Formula 1 from 2026.
• The Turkish government supports long-term plans regarding racing.
• The possibility of holding the Grand Prix may be announced in 2027.

Turkey aims to return to the Formula 1 calendar. Istanbul Park offers its services for 2026, although it cannot hold its stage due to the pandemic. The Turkish Grand Prix first appeared on the calendar in 2005 but was excluded in 2011. After that, the race returned in 2020 and 2021 during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The President of the Turkish Automobile Sports Federation (TOSFED), Eren Ülcer, stated that Turkey intends to secure a permanent spot on the calendar. The calendar for 2026 is already publicized, and Turkey is ready to host the Grand Prix, regardless of any race, for example, a new street circuit in Madrid will not be ready in time.

Ülcer emphasized that the Turkish government actively supports these plans. "We do not want to hold a replacement race, but we aim to secure a spot on the calendar for the long term," he said. Turkey has attractive conditions for hosting a race, including geographical location and a large number of spectators from neighboring countries.

The Formula 1 calendar for 2026 includes 24 races, but with possible changes until 2027, for example, the Dutch Grand Prix may remain on the calendar. Other countries, such as Southern Africa, Rwanda, and Thailand, are also interested in hosting races, which adds competition.

Tags: Middle East/Sport