Formula 1 could see Turkey make an unexpected return to the calendar this season as the sport grapples with scheduling disruptions caused by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem revealed that Istanbul Park might be brought forward from its planned 2027 return if the circuit can complete necessary homologation processes in time to serve as a replacement venue.
The potential calendar reshuffling comes after the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were cancelled due to regional security concerns, forcing F1 officials to explore alternative solutions for maintaining the championship schedule. Ben Sulayem outlined possible scenarios, including delaying races around Qatar by one week or incorporating Turkey earlier than anticipated, though he emphasized that any changes must avoid placing excessive strain on personnel and teams.
“If not, then maybe we could have Turkey this year if it finishes its homologation, and the rest of their needs,” Ben Sulayem explained to media. “Logistically, what’s the best scenario? We’re consulting with the promoters. It’s about where we want to go, and we will try to facilitate, but not without putting stress on our staff. That would be too much.”
The Turkish Grand Prix was already confirmed for a long-term return beginning next season, making Istanbul Park’s iconic Turn 8 available to drivers and fans once again. However, any accelerated timeline would require the circuit to meet all FIA safety and operational standards while considering complex logistical factors including freight movement, staffing requirements, and the broader calendar structure around Qatar and Abu Dhabi races later in the year.
Ben Sulayem emphasized that human safety remains the paramount concern above sporting considerations, praising regional leadership for their measured response to current tensions. “Sport can wait. What is more important? Humans or motorsport? Or any sport? Humans are always the priority,” he stated, adding that if conflicts persist into October and November, affected races would simply be cancelled rather than compromise security protocols.