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Fedaration Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has suggested that the Turkish Grand Prix could be added to this year’s Formula 1 calendar if Bahrain or Saudi Arabia cannot be fitted back into the schedule because of the ongoing war in the region.
The Turkish GP is already expected to return next season after a six-year absence, with Formula 1 confirming a five-year agreement through 2031. However, Ben Sulayem said Istanbul could be considered earlier if the circuit completes its homologation, the FIA approval process that confirms a track meets safety and technical standards for international racing.
Formula 1 and the FIA are assessing several options after the Middle East double-header was cancelled last month due to the war and attacks by neighboring Iran.
One possibility is placing Bahrain or Saudi Arabia in the gap between the Azerbaijan and Singapore races on Oct. 2-4. Another scenario would involve a four-race run at the end of the season, with the championship finishing one week later on Dec. 13.
If neither Bahrain nor Saudi Arabia can go ahead, Ben Sulayem indicated that Türkiye could step in sooner than planned.
“If not, then maybe we could have Turkey this year if it finishes its homologation, and the rest of their needs,” he said.
Ben Sulayem said F1 and the FIA are consulting with promoters while trying to avoid placing extra strain on staff and teams. He also acknowledged that the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races at the end of the season cannot be fully guaranteed while the conflict continues.
“There is a bigger issue than just motorsport,” he said, adding that “Humans are always the priority.”
He said that if the situation continues into October or November, F1 may have to stay away from the region because “security and safety come first.”
The Turkish Grand Prix has long been a popular stop among many Formula 1 fans, especially because of Istanbul Park’s fast and flowing layout.
Its confirmed return next season is already set to bring the race back after a six-year break, but the FIA president’s remarks suggest the comeback could happen one year earlier if the Middle East calendar cannot be restored.
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