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Discussions over a possible return of the Formula 1 Grand Prix to Türkiye in 2026 or 2027 have already stirred excitement in the motorsport world, with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko voicing their support. Negotiations are currently ongoing for a long-term contract that would bring Istanbul Park back to the official race calendar. The track, operated by the Turkish Automobile Sports Federation (TOSFED), has been a unique fixture of the sport since its inauguration in 2005, best known for its demanding Turn 8.
Though Istanbul Park fell off the calendar after 2011, it briefly returned during the pandemic, delivering memorable races for both fans and drivers.
The venue witnessed moments such as Felipe Massa’s first victory in 2006, the dramatic clash between Red Bull teammates Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber in 2010, and Lewis Hamilton’s rain-soaked title-winning drive in 2020.
In an interview with Motorsport.com, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko recalled Türkiye’s past Grands Prix. He pointed to the infamous Vettel-Webber collision, as well as a wet race where Lance Stroll started from pole but later collided with Sergio Perez. “Sporting-wise, we did not have very bright memories, but the atmosphere and what Istanbul offered were truly unique,” he said.
Marko highlighted Istanbul’s appeal beyond the circuit, noting that he always enjoyed staying along the Bosphorus. “The atmosphere there is incredible. The city center, the best shops and restaurants, is really magnificent,” he added.
On the circuit itself, he said that for its time the facilities stood at the highest level in Europe, and the track was among the most physically challenging for drivers.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff also shared his perspective with Motorsport.com, underlining both the racing legacy and Türkiye’s strategic importance. He remembered Lewis Hamilton’s championship-sealing win in the rain as his most vivid Türkiye memory.
More importantly, Wolff stressed the country’s significance for Mercedes. “Türkiye is a massive market for us. Not only for car sales but also in terms of car and truck production. That is why Türkiye has always been a place we liked to go,” he said.
Although the return of the Grand Prix has not yet been finalized, the comments from both Wolff and Marko indicate that Istanbul Park remains a strong candidate to rejoin the Formula 1 calendar.
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