Get ready for a thrilling shake-up in the Formula 1 calendar! The Turkish Grand Prix is inching closer to a spectacular return, and fans are buzzing with excitement. But here's where it gets controversial: while some circuits are securing permanent spots, others are being pushed into a rotational model. Let’s dive into the latest developments and what they mean for the future of F1.
Earlier this year, the announcement of the Portugal GP’s return to the calendar for 2027-28 marked the culmination of months of intense negotiations. As reported by LWOS back in September 2025, the organizers at Portimao’s circuit worked tirelessly to bring F1 back to their track. But they’re not alone in their efforts. Other circuits, including Turkey’s Istanbul Park, have been in deep discussions with Formula 1 management. And this is the part most people miss: these talks aren’t just about a one-off race—they’re about long-term commitments.
Negotiations between promoters and Formula One Management (FOM) have been ongoing, with new details emerging about potential contract lengths. Turkey, for instance, is in talks for a multi-year deal, mirroring Portimao’s approach. Istanbul Park, which hosted F1 races from 2005 to 2010, made a brief return during the unpredictable 2020 season. Its unique design and unpredictable weather conditions made for a memorable race, but its previous contract was short-lived, leading to its removal from the calendar in 2022.
Now, promoters are pushing hard for a comeback, and according to as-web.jp, talks are at an advanced stage. A five-year contract was reportedly offered last summer, which would see Istanbul Park return as a permanent fixture. However, there’s a catch: the circuit needs modernization to meet FOM’s stringent standards. This has sparked a search for investors to fund the necessary upgrades. While the deal hasn’t been finalized yet, it’s more a question of when, not if, it will happen.
But here’s the twist: not all circuits are guaranteed a permanent spot. With limited spaces on the calendar, F1 is increasingly turning to a rotational model. Take Barcelona’s Catalunya circuit, for example. With Madrid securing a multi-year deal to host the Spanish GP, Barcelona’s future is uncertain. Its current contract expires in 2026, and negotiations are underway for a new agreement. The most likely scenario? Alternating with the Belgian GP, which has already confirmed its presence in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031. This rotational approach allows F1 to keep fan-favorite tracks while introducing new venues.
For Barcelona, this means hosting races every other year, starting in 2028. While it’s a reduced role, it’s a realistic way to stay on the calendar. Meanwhile, Turkey is poised to become the next permanent addition, despite fierce competition. Istanbul Park’s rich history and potential for modernization make it a strong contender.
But what does this mean for the future of F1? Is the rotational model a fair compromise, or does it dilute the excitement of traditional circuits? And how will modernization efforts impact the character of tracks like Istanbul Park? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is a debate that’s sure to spark differing opinions!
