Formula 1 officially confirms its return to Turkey. Istanbul Park will rejoin the calendar from 2027 under a long-term agreement.

Formula 1 Confirms Return to Turkey

Formula 1 has officially confirmed its return to Turkey, with Istanbul Park set to rejoin the calendar from the 2027 season. The announcement marks the end of years of uncertainty surrounding the future of the Turkish Grand Prix.

The new agreement is expected to secure Turkey’s place on the Formula 1 calendar for multiple seasons, signaling a shift from occasional appearances to a more stable, long-term presence.

A Return with Long-Term Intent

Istanbul Park last hosted Formula 1 races during the pandemic-affected 2020 and 2021 seasons, after previously being part of the calendar between 2005 and 2011.

With this new agreement, Formula 1 is aiming to re-establish Turkey as a permanent destination rather than a temporary addition.

2027 as the Starting Point

The return is scheduled for the 2027 season, with further details regarding exact race dates and calendar positioning expected to be confirmed closer to the event.

The long-term nature of the agreement suggests that Turkey will once again play a consistent role in Formula 1’s global expansion strategy.

Strategic Importance for Formula 1

Formula 1 has been actively reshaping its calendar, balancing new markets with established venues. Istanbul Park’s return aligns with this strategy, offering a technically demanding circuit combined with strong regional interest.

The track’s location also provides logistical advantages when paired with other races in the region.

Why Istanbul Park Matters

Known for its challenging layout, Istanbul Park remains one of the most respected circuits among drivers.

Turn 8, in particular, is widely regarded as one of the most demanding corners in modern Formula 1, combining high speed with sustained lateral forces.

What It Means for Turkey

Formula 1’s return is expected to boost Turkey’s international visibility while also supporting tourism and motorsport development.

The move reinforces the country’s position as a potential long-term hub for major global sporting events.

The new Nissan Skyline has been teased. A V6 engine, manual transmission, and heritage-inspired design are expected for 2027.

Nissan Teases the Return of the Skyline

The new Nissan Skyline has officially been confirmed, with the brand releasing its first teaser images as part of its global product strategy.

After years without a major update, the next-generation Skyline is set to replace the aging model and will play a key role in Nissan’s performance lineup.

According to Nissan, the Skyline is classified as a “heartbeat model” meaning it represents the brand’s identity, emotion, and driving DNA rather than just being a volume seller.

Inspired by the Past, Designed for the Future

The new Skyline will take clear inspiration from its heritage, but without falling into retro design.

The teaser reveals:

• Vertical front lighting elements
• Sharp, angular front design
• The return of signature round taillights
• “Skyline” badging on the rear

Nissan’s global design director Alfonso Albaisa described the car as:

“Aggressive and modern, with proportions that recall the original.”

V6 Engine and Manual Gearbox Expected

While official specs are yet to be confirmed, strong reports suggest:

• 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine
• Around 400–450 horsepower
• Rear-wheel drive layout
• Manual transmission option

The powertrain is expected to be a refined version of the unit used in the Nissan Z and its Nismo variant.

Positioning-wise, the Skyline is expected to sit between the Nissan Z and the GT-R, offering a balance of performance and usability.

Infiniti Version for the U.S.

The new Skyline will not be sold in the United States under the Nissan badge.

Instead, a performance-oriented sedan based on the same platform is expected to be launched under the Infiniti brand, potentially wearing the Q50 or Q60 nameplate with unique styling.

Expected Launch Timeline

The next-generation Nissan Skyline is expected to debut around 2027, primarily targeting the Japanese market with right-hand drive configuration.

VIDEO

Takamoto Katsuta claimed victory at the Croatia Rally after Thierry Neuville crashed out on the final stage.

Final stage incident decides the outcome

The Croatia Rally concluded with a dramatic twist on the final stage, as Takamoto Katsuta secured victory following Thierry Neuville’s retirement.

Neuville, who had been leading comfortably heading into the Power Stage, crashed after hitting a concrete block, damaging the front-right suspension of his car and ending his rally just kilometres from the finish.

Second consecutive win for Katsuta

Katsuta and co-driver Aaron Johnston took advantage of the situation to claim their second consecutive FIA World Rally Championship victory.

The result follows their recent win at Safari Rally Kenya, marking a strong run of form across different surfaces.

Pajari and Paddon complete the podium

Sami Pajari was promoted to second place, finishing 20.7 seconds behind the leader. Hayden Paddon secured third position, maintaining a steady performance throughout the rally.

Pajari had led much of the event but lost ground after a puncture on Saturday, which ultimately cost him a chance to fight for victory.

Neuville’s rally ends in disappointment

Neuville entered the final day with a lead of over one minute and appeared set to secure the win. However, the late incident brought an abrupt end to his campaign, underlining how quickly conditions can change in rallying.

Championship standings updated

With this result:

• Katsuta moves to the top of the drivers’ standings with 84 points
• Elfyn Evans drops to second place
• Oliver Solberg remains third

Toyota also extends its lead in the manufacturers’ championship.

Strong performance in WRC2

In WRC2, Yohan Rossel claimed victory, delivering a notable result for Lancia. The result also marks one of the brand’s strongest performances in recent years within the category.

Next round: Rally Islas Canarias

The WRC calendar continues on asphalt with Rally Islas Canarias, scheduled to take place from April 23 to 26.

Tesla reintroduces the 7-seat Model Y, targeting family buyers with added practicality—though only on the Long Range AWD version.

The 7-Seat Tesla Model Y Returns

Tesla has officially brought back the 7-seat version of the Model Y, reintroducing a feature that had quietly disappeared from some markets around 18 months ago.

Now available on the updated Model Y, the return of the third row signals Tesla’s renewed focus on family practicality and versatility.

Designed for Families — With Limits

The third row consists of two forward-facing foldable seats, accessed via an electronically sliding second row. However, Tesla makes it clear: The third row is best suited for children or short trips

While it adds flexibility, it’s not designed to replace a full-size three-row SUV.

Still One of the Most Practical EVs

Despite the added seating, the Model Y maintains strong cargo flexibility:

• 381 liters with all seats up
• 894 liters with third row folded
• 2,094 liters with both rear rows down
• +116 liters in the front trunk

This keeps it among the most versatile electric SUVs in its class.

Only Available on the Long Range AWD

Here’s the catch: The 7-seat option is only available on the Long Range All-Wheel Drive version. This significantly increases the total price compared to the base model.

Pricing and Range

In the UK:

• Starting price (7-seat version): £54,490
• Third row option: £2,500 extra

However, choosing the Long Range AWD already adds a substantial premium. Range is estimated at: Up to 372 miles (WLTP) with the third row

Interior Tech Remains a Highlight

The Model Y continues to offer Tesla’s signature tech-focused cabin:

• 16-inch central touchscreen
• Rear 8-inch display for passengers
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Ambient lighting

The third row includes USB-C ports and cupholders, but remains minimal.

Competition Is Getting Stronger

With the return of the third row, the Model Y re-enters direct competition with:

• Peugeot E-5008
• Mercedes EQB

Both of which are targeting families looking for electric three-row SUVs.

A Strategic Comeback?

The Model Y lost some ground in sales rankings in 2025. This move appears to be a strategic push to win back family buyers, especially those who need extra seating but still want an EV.

PistonKafalar Comment

This isn’t just about adding two seats. It’s about Tesla repositioning the Model Y as a do-it-all family SUV again. But let’s be honest: The third row is more of a backup solution than a true seven-seat experience.