Almost six years after the last race, Turkey is officially bringing Formula 1 back. On April 24, 2026, it was announced that Istanbul Park will host the Turkish Grand Prix from 2027 to 2031 under a new five-year contract.
Recalling the vibrant promo for Formula 1’s return to Turkey, it’s worth mentioning the legendary 2020 video filmed before the Grand Prix at Istanbul Park. In it, Red Bull Racing driver Alexander Albon and AlphaTauri driver Pierre Gasly took a real road trip through the streets of Istanbul in F1 cars.
The most memorable moment was the first-ever “pit stop” between two continents on the 15 July Martyrs Bridge (15 Temmuz Şehitler Köprüsü). The drivers also sped past Topkapi Palace, the Galata Bridge, Sultanahmet Square, and the Eurasia Tunnel.
Pierre Gasly said at the time: “Driving a Formula 1 car in Istanbul, especially crossing the bridge from one continent to another, was incredible. Being part of such an important event is really cool.”
Alexander Albon added: “Driving through the streets of Istanbul was a truly great experience. The moments on the 15 July Martyrs Bridge will stay in my memory forever.”
This atmospheric video is gaining popularity again — many call it one of the most beautiful promo videos in Formula 1 history. The return of the race in 2027 promises new bright moments and a powerful tourism campaign for Istanbul and all of Turkey.
Turkey is actively using Formula 1 to promote the country as a global hub — and the old viral 2020 video perfectly emphasizes how spectacular and unique races in Istanbul can be.
Turkish Grand Prix returns to the calendar:
- The race will take place at Istanbul Park
- Return starts: 2027 season
- Contract: until 2031 (5 seasons)
- Announcement made in April 2026
- Turkey has hosted races before (last time in 2021)
- The return is linked to calendar expansion and the track’s popularity
Istanbul Park will once again become a permanent part of the F1 calendar for at least 5 years.
New Contract Details and the Future of Istanbul Park
The return of the Grand Prix became possible thanks to a new long-term agreement between Formula 1, the Turkish Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the new track operators. Under the terms of the five-year contract signed in April 2026, the operators are required not only to maintain the track in perfect condition but also to invest in the development of Istanbul Park as a modern motorsport center and entertainment hub.
Unlike the “COVID-era” races of 2020–2021, when Turkey served as a replacement option, the new contract guarantees Istanbul a stable place in the calendar until 2031. This is happening amid the rotation of European rounds: the Turkish Grand Prix will occupy an important niche in the region.
Impact on the Real Estate Market and Investments
For investors and property owners in Istanbul, the return of Formula 1 is a powerful image and economic driver:
- Local boom in the Asian part: the greatest attention is shifting to the Tuzla and Pendik districts. Proximity to the Istanbul Park circuit and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) makes these locations especially attractive for investments in apart-hotels, serviced apartments, and short-term rentals.
- Rental Yield: during the Grand Prix periods (starting from 2027), short-term rental rates in the eastern part of Istanbul are expected to grow significantly. The modernization of transport interchanges around the track and the expansion of infrastructure from SAW Airport should increase the capitalization of properties in this area. Events of this level traditionally support strong interest in Istanbul’s premium real estate segment.
Real Estate in Istanbul — a Profitable Investment in 2026–2027
The return of Formula 1 to Istanbul Park significantly increases the attractiveness of Tuzla, Pendik and the entire Asian side of Istanbul. If you are considering buying an apartment, apart-hotel or investment property near the circuit — we will help you choose the best options according to your budget and goals.
Contact us via the online chat on the website — our specialists will quickly select current real estate offers in Istanbul, calculate the yield and provide full transaction support.