Toprak Razgatlioglu Pushes for MotoGP Return to Istanbul Park in 2028

MotoGP could return to the Istanbul Park circuit in Turkey by 2028, according to ongoing discussions involving Toprak Razgatlioglu and event organizers. While plans for a 2027 calendar slot did not materialize, negotiations for the following season remain active as the track aims to secure its place back on the premier motorcycling world championship calendar.

The Istanbul Park circuit previously hosted three MotoGP Grands Prix following its inauguration, staging races in 2005, 2006, and 2007. Marco Melandri claimed victory in the first two events riding a Honda, while Casey Stoner secured the win in 2007 aboard a Ducati during the season he captured his first world title.

Negotiations for the 2028 Calendar and Formula 1 Precedent

Razgatlioglu explained that while a 2027 appearance was targeted, the MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group had already finalized its scheduling plans for that year. Discussions are now focused on securing a spot for 2028.

“We have pushed to be included in 2027, but I think MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group already had their plans with all the circuits for next year,” Razgatlioglu told media outlets, including Motorsport.com, during a media appearance in Austria. “We have ruled it out because I think we had no chance to be on the calendar next year. Now, we are talking for 2028, because we have the possibility of MotoGP returning.”

The venue’s prospects for two-wheeled racing run alongside its confirmed return to the Formula 1 calendar in the autumn of 2027 under a five-year contract. Razgatlioglu noted that the facility is physically prepared to host international racing series again.

Track Layout and Local Expectations for Razgatlioglu

The layout of Istanbul Park is widely praised by riders, particularly for its famous Turn 8, a long and demanding multi-apex left-hander. However, Razgatlioglu noted that the corner handles differently on a motorcycle compared to an F1 car.

“It’s a very cool circuit. Everyone loves that long left-hand corner. In Formula 1 it is taken at full speed. With a bike, I don’t know if it will be possible. I don’t think it’s as fun as in an F1,” Razgatlioglu said, as reported by Motorsport.com. “But it is a nice circuit, the first two sectors are very cool. The back straight is long and there is a very fast right-hand corner, like turn 11 at Misano.”

As a three-time Superbike world champion, Razgatlioglu acknowledged the intense public attention and competitive pressure a home Grand Prix would generate.

“If the MotoGP World Championship returns to Istanbul Park, I will have to get exceptional results. That is the main problem: too much pressure for me!” Razgatlioglu said.