The Complex Journey of Istanbul Park
Istanbul Park, Turkey’s exclusive Formula 1 circuit, has been embroiled in a web of complicated developments in recent months. Established in 2003 with an investment of approximately 160 million dollars, the facility is now facing uncertainties due to a contentious tender process and ensuing court decisions. Recently, the last tenant, Lale Cander’s company, was evicted from the venue following legal proceedings. There are rumors that the circuit will be transferred from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, with management potentially being handed over to the Turkish Automobile Sports Federation (TOSFED).
Challenges in the Tender Process
The tender for Istanbul Park’s operation, initially scheduled for February 2024, was marred by a clause requiring participants to “guarantee that Formula 1 races will be held on the track within one month.” This stipulation led many companies to withdraw from the tender. Ultimately, only Can Bilim Eğitim, a subsidiary of Can Holding, participated and secured a 30-year lease with a bid of $117.8 million. Notably, the former tenant, Intercity, abstained from the tender, citing objections to the specifications.
However, the reliability of the letter of guarantee was called into question, with allegations suggesting it was obtained from an unauthorized insurance entity, raising concerns it may have been forged. Following a lawsuit by Vural Ak, owner of Intercity, the Istanbul 11th Administrative Court annulled the tender, citing non-compliance with timelines and a lack of competition. The General Directorate of Foundations appealed the decision, but the 13th Chamber of the Council of State upheld the annulment.
Eviction and Prospective Management Changes
With the court’s decision finalized, Lale Cander‘s company was evicted after a year. Reports suggest that the Ministry of Youth and Sports will take ownership of the Istanbul Park facility. Additionally, there are strong indications that TOSFED may assume operational responsibilities. TOSFED has been closely monitoring the situation throughout the tender process.
Vural Ak, owner of the former tenant Intercity, has voiced strong criticism regarding the track’s condition post-court decision. He claims that after years of significant investment to maintain Istanbul Park, the past year saw neglect, citing issues like power and water cuts and subpar events. Ak stresses that such a publicly funded facility should be managed by competent individuals. When Intercity vacated the track, the new management made similar claims about its deteriorated state. The two F1 races hosted during the pandemic were largely seen as fortuitous occurrences, and Istanbul Park has since fallen out of favor with F1 organizers.
Uncertain Prospects for 2026
The ongoing legal and administrative challenges cast doubt on Turkey’s participation in the 2026 Formula 1 calendar. The 2026 season is expected to feature approximately 22 to 25 races. While F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has mentioned an optimal number of 24 races, the likelihood of Istanbul Park being included is diminishing amid these complexities. Moreover, it’s well-known that numerous circuits are vying for inclusion in the calendar.
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