Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Move and Talks of Turkish GP Return Highlight Major…..read more
Lewis Hamilton, one of Formula 1’s most iconic drivers, made headlines in 2024 with his unexpected decision to leave Mercedes after a legendary 12-season stint. During his time with the Silver Arrows, Hamilton secured six of his seven world championships, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest drivers in the sport’s history. However, his last three years with Mercedes were marked by struggles to regain championship-winning form, leading to his surprise move to Ferrari.
Now at 40 years old, Hamilton joins the Scuderia with hopes of achieving what no driver has done before: claiming an eighth world title. If successful, he will surpass Michael Schumacher’s long-standing record. At Ferrari, Hamilton will partner with Charles Leclerc, who has been the team’s rising star and a formidable competitor. Their partnership promises to be one of the most intriguing storylines of the 2024 season, as both drivers vie for supremacy within the team and in the championship battle.
Hamilton’s most recent world title came in 2020, a season marked by unique challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the standout moments of that season was his victory at the Turkish Grand Prix, held at the Istanbul Park circuit. That race, which returned to the calendar after nearly a decade of absence, showcased Hamilton’s exceptional skill in wet conditions. His triumph at Istanbul Park secured his seventh championship in spectacular fashion and is remembered as one of the most defining performances of his career.
The Turkish GP, originally held between 2005 and 2011, was reintroduced in 2020 to fill gaps in the calendar caused by pandemic-related cancellations. Its return was met with widespread acclaim from fans and drivers, who praised the challenging nature of the Istanbul Park circuit. However, the race has not featured on the calendar since 2021.
Now, there is renewed hope for the Turkish GP’s return. Turkish journalist İlhan Tüysüz has reported ongoing negotiations between Formula 1 management and Turkish authorities to bring the race back as early as 2026. Discussions reportedly involve high-ranking officials, including Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy and Youth and Sports Minister Osman Aşkın Bak. According to the report, both ministers held meetings with F1 representatives last month to outline Turkey’s commitment to hosting a race at Istanbul Park once again.
Further support for the race’s return came from FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan earlier this year. Their discussions reportedly included plans for not only the return of Formula 1 but also the World Rally Championship, underlining Turkey’s broader ambitions to reestablish itself as a prominent motorsport destination.
Although an official confirmation is still pending, these developments signal a strong intent from Turkey to secure its place on the F1 calendar. The Istanbul Park circuit, with its iconic Turn 8 and reputation for producing exciting racing, has always been a favorite among drivers and fans. Its potential return would add further variety to the calendar, complementing the growing list of races in the Middle East and Europe.
For Hamilton, the prospect of returning to Istanbul Park could be particularly meaningful. His victory there in 2020 was not only a masterclass in racecraft but also a historic moment in his career. If Turkey’s bid is successful, the circuit might once again play host to key moments in Hamilton’s quest for an eighth title with Ferrari.
As F1 continues to expand its global footprint, the addition of fan-favorite circuits like Istanbul Park would provide a balance between new venues and historic tracks. While the final decision rests with the FIA, Turkey’s efforts and the support from key stakeholders suggest that the Turkish GP could soon reclaim its spot on the calendar, bringing another chapter of excitement to the world of Formula 1.
