Settling into the positions they were awarded in the qualifying laps, the drivers make their formation laps, tracing zigzags. Tires and brakes have now reached racing temperature so there's no further obstacle to starting the race. The drivers are again at the start line. The five lights come on once again and then go out in rapid succession. The big moment has come... The race has begun.
Exciting moments like these are going to be broadcast round the world from Istanbul on August 21st. On that great day, this millennia-old city is once again going to engrave its name in the annals of history, this time in gold letters. For it is going to host the 14th Formula One Grand Prix, watched every year by millions of people.

ISTANBUL TAKES ITS OWN WARMUP LAP
With a track acknowledged to be among the best in the world, Istanbul has long been ready for the race. In fact, it took several 'warmup laps' before the races even began, making history as it did so.