Ecclestone and Turkish Officials Hold Talks Over Istanbul Park F1 Return
Bernie Ecclestone met with Intercity chairman Vural Ak in London as Turkey seeks government approval to bring Formula One back to Istanbul Park as early as 2016.
Bernie Ecclestone has met with Intercity chairman Vural Ak in London to discuss the possible return of Formula One to Turkey, with Istanbul Park aiming to rejoin the championship calendar as soon as 2016. This follows ongoing speculation about the future of the Hermann Tilke-designed circuit, which last hosted a grand prix in 2011.
Ecclestone and Intercity in Talks for Turkish Grand Prix Return
The meeting between Ecclestone and Ak signals renewed interest in bringing Formula One back to Turkey. Istanbul Park remains eligible to host F1 thanks to its FIA Grade 1 licence. Recent claims that the circuit would be converted into a used car dealership were dismissed by Intercity, with Ak confirming the venue’s continued compliance with F1 standards.
Government Approval Remains the Final Step
According to the Turkish state news agency Anadolu, Ak travelled to London specifically for talks with Ecclestone. The main obstacle to Turkey’s F1 return is now government approval, as the event is classified as an international activity. Ak has stated that the Turkish government’s decision is expected after the country’s general election on 1 November. If approval is granted, the only step remaining would be a final signature to secure Istanbul Park’s place on the official F1 calendar.
Potential 2016 Return and Calendar Challenges
If the Turkish Grand Prix is approved, Istanbul Park could return to the Formula One calendar as early as 2016. The provisional calendar for that year already features 21 races, which would be the most in the sport’s history. There has been speculation that the season could be extended into December to accommodate new venues. However, Ecclestone has indicated a preference to avoid running so close to Christmas, suggesting that the calendar may not expand further unless absolutely necessary. The final decision will depend on the timing of government approvals and the ability to fit additional races into the schedule.
Istanbul Park’s Formula One History
Istanbul Park, designed by Hermann Tilke, hosted the Turkish Grand Prix from 2005 to 2011. The circuit was known for its challenging layout, including the famous Turn 8, a multi-apex corner that became a favourite among drivers and fans. Despite its popularity, the race was dropped from the calendar after 2011 due to financial and organisational issues. Since then, there have been periodic discussions about reviving the event, but none have progressed as far as the current negotiations between Intercity and Formula One management.
What’s Next for Turkey and Formula One?
The outcome of the Turkish general election and subsequent government decision will determine whether Istanbul Park returns to the Formula One calendar. If the race is approved, it would mark a significant comeback for Turkey in international motorsport and could add further excitement to an already packed F1 season. Until then, the future of the Turkish Grand Prix remains uncertain, but the recent talks in London suggest that a return is closer than it has been in years.
