Istanbul Park plans fan-focused upgrades for F1’s 2027 return

Formula 1 is set to return to Istanbul Park in 2027, with the circuit layout unchanged as organisers plan a major overhaul of the facilities around it to improve the experience for fans.

Eren Uclertopragi, president of the Turkish Automobile Federation (TOSFED), said the plans include modernising the infrastructure, covering most grandstands and adding fan zones. He described the new five-year contract as a challenge to make the venue attractive to fans as well as drivers.

TOSFED has also taken over circuit management and now acts as promoter, Uclertopragi said. He said the change gives the federation a more direct role in delivering the work, and criticized the previous private operator for not putting sport, fans or Formula 1 first.

Traffic is a priority. Earlier Turkish Grands Prix were marked by chaotic traffic, while roads around Istanbul Park have already been reorganised with separate routes for arrivals and departures. Plans also include better crowd management, a doubling of paddock capacity and upgraded hospitality that will make use of Turn 8.

The asphalt is another concern. At the rain-affected 2020 Turkish Grand Prix, several drivers described the surface as “driving on ice”. Uclertopragi acknowledged the problem, saying the top layer had been resurfaced shortly before the race and that the absence of a preceding race at the circuit had contributed. For Formula 1’s return, he expects the tarmac to stay as it is. Istanbul Park currently hosts experience events for at least 30 weeks a year, he said, with national and international races planned after the renovation and before F1 returns.

The initial deal covers five years, but Uclertopragi said TOSFED is discussing with the Turkish state how to keep Istanbul on the calendar beyond that term. He said a longer stay depends on meeting Formula 1’s standards and keeping fans satisfied.