Inside Turkey's massive F1 return revamp

Turkey's Grand Prix is set for a 2027 return with a five-year deal, and this time organizers are doing things differently. Istanbul Park will undergo a massive revamp, with state backing and a focus on fixing the issues that previously saw it dropped from the calendar.

Why it matters:

The Turkish GP previously failed to stick despite a popular track and location. High fees, lack of government support, and poor promotion led to its exit after 2011, and a brief Covid return wasn't enough. Now with a government-led 30-year tender and private-public partnership, the event has a more solid foundation.

The details:

• Paddock expansion: The paddock capacity will be doubled, with infrastructure rebuilt from scratch — including race control and surrounding roads.
• Fan experience: More grandstands will be covered, expansive fan zones added, and high-quality hospitality planned, especially at the iconic Turn 8.
• Better access: New road construction aims to ease the traffic headaches that plagued the remote circuit's previous events.
• Track surface: No repeat of the slippery 2020 surface — the track will have 30 weeks of racing before F1, ensuring it's well rubbered in.
• No rush: Organizers declined a potential 2026 slot, preferring to wait until renovations are properly finished.
• Government backing: For the first time, the state fully backs the race through a 30-year tender involving Can Holdings and TOSFED.

What's next:

With the timeline set for 2027, Istanbul Park will host national and international races before F1 arrives. The hope is that a better-prepared event, combined with long-term investment, will finally secure the Turkish GP's place on the calendar.