Turkish Grand Prix

The Istanbul Racing Circuit is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and is just a stone's throw away from the newly constructed Sabiha Gokcen Istanbul Airport.

This Formula One track stands out from the rest because it is enveloped by forest and cultivated green fields making for an interesting blend of exhilarating entertainment in picturesque surroundings.

The Turkish Grand Prix Formula 1 circuit runs counter-clockwise, and is 5,378 metres long with an average width of 15 metres, excluding the run-off areas.

The circuit is composed of 13 curves, six of which are right turns and seven left turns. The F1 Circuit runs over four level sections with rising and descending grades. The top speed in last year's race was 330 km/h by McLaren driver Juan Pablo Montoya.

Off track

Istanbul is one of the world's truly romantic cities and the heartbeat of modern Turkey.

Spread over two continents this historic city is full of contrasts. Its unique blend of the old and the new, means it has much to offer the visitor wishing to leave the sounds and speed of the F1 track behind.

Visitors to this magnificent city can enjoy the traditional elements of Turkey, including belly dancing shows, shisha smoking, authentic kebabs and Turkish baths.

But if you're looking for a more modern touch this is a city that has it all. For a bridge between the East and West, take the Bosphorus bridge to between Ortakoy (the European side) and Beylerbeyi (the Asian side).

The city is best explored on foot and most of the best sights are within walking distance of each other, but if you're in need of a rest a cay bahce (tea garden) is never far away.

Take a stroll in one of Istanbul's many stunning parks, including Arboretum park which may be entered only by special permission.

Alternatively take one of the city tours for a better view of the city. The Island Tour takes visitors to the Princes' Islands which are popular spots for one-day visits.

Here the old very much overrules the new and motorised transportation is strictly prohibited, with horse carriages used instead.

Carry on the history lesson with a visit to Sultanahmet - the old peninsula. All of Istanbul's most important monumental buildings are found in this section of the old town.

The imperial buildings and sanctuaries have been situated there since Roman time.

The Sultanahmet mosque now takes the place of the imperial palaces which once stood in the same spot. Sultanahmet is the only mosque in the world with six minarets.

Formula fun
Eighteen cities, nine months, 26 teams, 11 drivers, but just one winner - this is life in the fast lane.

Australian Grand Prix
The Formula One Australian Grand Prix is frequently presented with the award for best organised event by the FIA, which means that both on and off the track - this is an event not to be missed.

Malaysian Grand Prix
The Malaysian Grand Prix may not have been part of the Formula One circuit for long, but Kuala Lumpur boasts a track worthy of hosting both the F1 grand Prix and FIM Motorcycle Grand Prix and one which really raises the standards for all other circuits.

Bahrain Grand Prix
The Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix is arguably the biggest sporting occasion in the Middle East.

Spanish Grand Prix
Set in the vibrant Barcelona the Spanish Grand Prix is one of the most exciting races in the F1 circuit.

Monaco Grand Prix
In the world of major sporting events, nothing can compare to the sheer elegance, glamour and excitement that is arguably Formula One's most prestigious race - the Grand Prix of Monaco.

Canadian Grand Prix
With the combination of the fantastic Gilles Villeneuve track and its exceptional nightlife, Montreal has become an annual trip for many motor lovers from all over the world.

French Grand Prix
There is something very special about the French Grand Prix in Magny Cours.

British Grand Prix
The very first Formula One Grand Prix took place at Silverstone in 1948 on a track marked out with straw bales and large oil drums.

German Grand Prix
Traditionally the German Grand Prix was all about raw horsepower. It was a flat-out blast around a 4.2 mile tree-lined track before it raged into the stadium section that houses the thousands of fans.

Hungarian Grand Prix
The Hungaroring circuit is 19km from the centre of Budapest, alongside the M3 motorway at the border of the village, Mogyoród.

European Grand Prix
Set along the stunning Mediterranean coast in Spain's third largest city, Valencia, the European Grand Prix is expected to be nothing short of phenomenal.

Belgian Grand Prix
The Belgian Grand Prix is favourite track amongst many drivers.

Italian Grand Prix
For passionate Formula One fans the world over, the Italian Grand Prix is one not to be missed. Few stops along the Formula One route can rival that of Italy's celebrated Grand Prix.

Singapore Grand Prix
There is much anticipation about the Singapore Grand Prix. Not only is it the newest addition to the Formula One calendar, but it is Formula One's first ever night race.

Japanese Grand Prix
Because of the exciting and challenging layout of Fuji Speedway Circuit the Japanese Grand Prix is one of the most-loved F1 events of the season.

Chinese Grand Prix
The Chinese Grand Prix circuit is like no other, shaped like a letter or character from the Shang (ancient Chinese alphabet), it combines sweeping curves and long straights leading onto hairpin corners, succeeded in making overtaking opportunities possible.

Brazilian Grand Prix
Home to so many heroes of Formula One racing there is something very special about the Brazilian Grand Prix - and it's not just that it's the final race on the annual calendar.