Erdogan hopes Turkish Grand Prix returns as early as in 2026
Turkey is hopeful that the Turkish Grand Prix at the beloved fast, flowing Instanbul circuit can return to the Formula One calendar as early as in 2026.
The Turkish Grand Prix made its debut on the F1 schedule in 2005, quickly becoming a favourite among drivers and fans. The racing on the fast and flowing Istanbul track was initially dominated by Ferrari’s Felipe Massa, who won three races on the trot with the Scuderia.
The track stayed on the grand prix calendar until the 2011 F1 season, but it disappeared completely not only from the F1 schedule, but from international racing.
However, the Turkish Grand Prix made a sensational return in the coronavirus-affected 2020 F1 season. The race was won by Lewis Hamilton, who secured there his seventh world championship title. Next season saw Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas clinch the victory, but the race failed to stay in F1 for the next season.
It has now emerged that Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has recently met with FIA President Mohammed ben Sulayeem about a possible return of the Turkish Grand Prix.
Speaking to motorsport.com, Eren Üçlertoprağı, president of TOSFED (Turkish Automobile Sports Federation) revealed that many changes have taken place in the background recently.
“We have been waiting for this tender since we took over management. We wanted to move to a new business model that includes sports and athletes. Thanks to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the General Directorate of Foundations, TOSFED athletes will be able to use this location for 30 days. We were given this opportunity regardless of who the operator is.”
Regarding the condition of the circuit, he added: “The last time we saw the track was during Formula 1. When we entered, there were weeds over a meter high. Inside the building, everything had been dismantled. Even the furniture was taken away.”
“The timing device, which is very important for the track, was also missing, without which it would not be Grade 1 in the eyes of the FIA. It’s impossible that it was stolen, as it’s a device built by the state and is essential for the circuit. The corridors connecting to the stands were also flooded.”
“We submitted our report on the necessary requirements for this track to return to FIA Grade 1 status. Once these deficiencies are addressed, a protocol will be signed with the operators, and many races will be held here, which our people can watch for free.”
“If these landscaping agreements are reached, we could start using the track the next day. The General Directorate of Foundations and the new tenant must reach an agreement on this point. If the necessary agreements are made, I believe we could start organizing races this summer.”
Expanding on the conversation between Erdogan and Ben Sulayem, Üclertopragi revealed that the Instanbul track might return in two years’ time.
“During the meeting, support for including Turkey in the calendar was promised if the necessary conditions are met. The FIA president made this promise personally.”
“As far as we know, negotiations between the current contractor and Formula 1 are on track. The financial package must be prepared, and if the contractor fulfills it, the chances of realization are high. The condition for Formula 1 in 2026 is already included in the contract.”
