2026 is shaping up to be a transformative year for Formula 1. With a new set of regulations that promise to change the landscape completely and the addition of the Madrid Grand Prix, which has a deal until 2035. But it might not be the only addition to the calendar. of the highest category of motorsport.
Turkey is negotiating its return to the Formula 1 circuit, hoping to reinstate Istanbul Park as a permanent venue and not just a temporary replacement, as occurred in 2020 and 2021 during the seasons affected by the coronavirus pandemic. This follows the recent award of the rights to operate the circuit to a Pirelli subsidiary in Türkiye.
Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Turkey’s Minister of Culture and Tourism, recently noted that they are in decisive weeks to close the deal with the organizers of Formula 1. “The tender for the management of the Formula 1 track in Istanbul was held at the beginning April and was completed successfully. The previous tenant must vacate and transfer it to the company that won the tender. In this case, the process of concluding an agreement to hold a race in Istanbul starting in 2026 will advance rapidly,” Ersoy told Milliyet.
With new engine regulations set to be implemented that year, many circuits are re-evaluating their participation, and the end of several current contracts could mean more opportunities for new venues. Thus, it seems the perfect scenario for Türkiye to make a move.
The coming weeks, as the minister noted, will be crucial for Istanbul Park and Turkey so that the final details of the agreement are finalized. In this sense, Lale Cander, partner of Can Bilim E?itim Kurumlar? A.?., the company that won the tender, stated that they hope to conclude the negotiations soon to ensure that Istanbul has a Grand Prix by 2026.
