Minister of Culture and Tourism Announces Istanbul’s Return to Formula 1 Circuit in 2026

The excitement is palpable as Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced the commencement of the contracting process for hosting Formula 1 races in Istanbul in 2026. This news marks a significant milestone for Istanbul Park as it prepares to rejoin the prestigious Formula 1 circuit.

Minister Ersoy stated, “The tender process for the Istanbul F1 Track was completed successfully this April. Next week, we will oversee the transition from the current to the new tenant, setting the stage for Formula 1 preparations.” The formal contracting phase to secure the races will start without delay, following the set timeline.

Istanbul Park, known for its challenging circuit and enthusiastic fanbase, has a rich history of hosting Formula 1 events. Its reintroduction to the Formula 1 calendar is expected to attract significant international attention and boost tourism, reinforcing Türkiye’s image as a prime location for major sports events.

In parallel, Türkiye’s tourism sector is experiencing robust growth. The Turkish Statistical Institute reports a 5.4% increase in tourism revenue in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year, reaching $8.78 billion. The number of visitors also rose by 10.1%.

The return of Formula 1 to Istanbul is expected to significantly enhance the local economy, benefiting multiple sectors, including hospitality and retail. As preparations for the 2026 races begin, the anticipated economic and cultural impacts will enrich Türkiye’s broader economic landscape. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development.