F1 Today | Turkish GP returns to Formula 1 as Audi names Wheatley successor

One of the most popular Grands Prix among fans and drivers is set to make its return to the Formula 1 calendar after a five-year absence, with the last edition dating back to 2021. The agreement is a multi-year deal spanning five seasons, ensuring that Istanbul Park will feature as a permanent fixture on the calendar through to 2031, with no rotation system in place alongside other Grands Prix.

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali welcomed the announcement, underlining the significance of bringing the sport back to Istanbul, a city he described as vibrant and culturally unique, positioned at the crossroads between Europe and Asia. He also pointed to the circuit’s reputation as one of the most exciting and technically demanding tracks on the calendar, which has produced several memorable moments in the past. The CEO also highlighted their collective efforts in making the return possible, while also stressing his enthusiasm for opening a new chapter in the partnership, with the aim of delivering more high-quality racing and unforgettable experiences for fans at Istanbul Park.

As GPblog was first to report, Allan McNish is set to take over from Jonathan Wheatley at Audi, albeit under a different title, stepping into the role of Racing Director for the Audi Revolut F1 Team. The Scotsman described the appointment as a major honour, highlighting his strong personal connection to the Audi brand and the significance of representing it, along with its partners, at the highest level of motorsport. He also framed the role as an exciting challenge at a crucial stage in both Audi’s journey into Formula 1 and the sport’s broader evolution.

McNish emphasised the ambition behind the project, pointing to his focus on ensuring that all areas of race operations perform at the highest possible level while continuing to improve. Alongside that, he confirmed his ongoing commitment to the team’s Driver Development Programme, with the broader objective of helping lay the foundations for long-term success under the leadership of Mattia Binotto and the board.

Binotto, serving as COO and CTO, praised McNish’s appointment, highlighting his extensive racing background, deep technical expertise, and leadership qualities. He also underlined McNish’s long-standing involvement within Audi’s motorsport structure, noting that since the inception of the Formula 1 project, he has played a key role in shaping the team’s preparations, particularly in relation to technical partnerships.