Where is it?
The Turkish Grand Prix takes place at Istanbul Park, on the Asian side of Istanbul. The circuit first hosted Formula 1 in 2005 and returns to the calendar in 2027 after an absence stretching back to 2021.
Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia, with the Bosphorus separating the two sides of this fascinating city. Once known as Constantinople, it’s a fabulous mix of historic mosques, bustling bazaars, waterfront restaurants and modern city life.
What’s the circuit like?
Istanbul Park is a purpose-built circuit, just over 5.3KM long, with dramatic changes in elevation and a challenging mixture of fast corners and slower sections.
The highlight is Turn 8, a long, sweeping left-hander with multiple apexes, which puts both drivers and tyres under enormous strain. It’s one of those corners where watching an F1 car at speed is a spectacle in itself.
The long back straight leads into the heavy braking zone at Turn 12, providing one of the best opportunities for overtaking.
What sort of race can we expect?
There’s every reason to look forward to this one. The combination of demanding corners and opportunities to pass should give drivers plenty to work with, while tyre management could make race strategy particularly interesting.
Turkey has already delivered some memorable F1 moments. In 2010, Red Bull team-mates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber collided while fighting for the lead, throwing away the team’s chance of victory.
The 2020 race saw Lewis Hamilton win in slippery conditions to secure his seventh world championship, equalling Michael Schumacher’s record. Valtteri Bottas won the most recent Turkish Grand Prix in 2021, while Felipe Massa remains the event’s most successful driver, with three consecutive victories between 2006 and 2008.
Why go to this one?
This is a great opportunity to combine a Grand Prix with a city break somewhere special. Spend a few days exploring Istanbul’s old town, visiting the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar, and taking a boat trip on the Bosphorus.
The food is another excellent reason to linger, from freshly grilled fish and traditional kebabs to Turkish breakfasts and baklava.
You could also extend your trip with a beach holiday on Turkey’s Mediterranean or Aegean coast, combining the excitement of the race with a relaxing week by the sea.
Where’s the best place to watch?
For overtaking, look for a grandstand overlooking the approach to Turn 12. The braking zone at the end of the back straight should offer plenty of opportunities to see drivers trying a move.
For sheer speed and an appreciation of what these cars can do, a view of Turn 8 would be hard to beat. The main grandstand is another option if you enjoy the build-up on the grid and activity around the pits. Check the final 2027 seating plan before choosing your tickets.
When is it in 2027?
1–3 October 2027, with the Grand Prix on Sunday 3 October.
Turkish Grand Prix Offers
We’ll post offers here as they come in.
