Confusion is reigning amid conflicting reports and statements over a possible Turkish Grand Prix return in 2020.
Currently, Formula 1 is working to confirm what is likely to be an 18-race calendar this year despite all the disruption caused by Covid-19.
13 GP's have been announced, including returns to Imola and Nurburgring and two new venues at Mugello and Portimao, while a doubleheader in Bahrain followed by the finale in Abu Dhabi is anticipated in December.
This would leave room for two further races in November, with Vietnam and Malaysia the two destinations most touted to ensure a stint in Asia is included.
But the current owners of the Istanbul Park circuit, Intercity, issued a statement on Instagram claiming talks are taking place to host F1 for the first time since 2011.
"There has been a need to inform the public about the news on the foreign and domestic press channels and social media platforms about bringing Formula 1 races back to our country," it read.
"We have been carrying out the work of bringing Formula 1 races back to our country with great desire and care since 2013, when we took over the operation of the Istanbul Park track.
"The project of bringing Formula 1 races back to our country was taken to the Presidency and the task of conducting the necessary meetings with the Formula 1 administration was given to us by the Presidency.
"Our negotiations with the Formula 1 management continue uninterrupted so that Intercity Istanbul Park, which is shown as one of the best race tracks in the world, and Istanbul can host Formula 1 races again.
"As Intercity Istanbul Park, we would like to share that we are at a stage where we cannot share their details at the time of our confidentiality agreement with Formula 1 management, and while we are in talks to take part in the 2020 calendar, we would like to inform the public that necessary information will be provided."
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The rumours have been met with scepticism by some, with The Race noting the popular circuit has not held the necessary FIA Grade 1 licence since 2012 and the legitimacy of any talks over a race have also been called into question.
Still, in a year where some fans have suggested the revised schedule is actually better than the original 2020 calendar, the return of Istanbul would certainly only add to that feeling.
