An Evaluation of Planning and Organization Process of Sporting Event: The Case of Formula 1 in Istanbul

Abstract

This paper evaluates the planning and organisation of the Formula 1 event in Istanbul as a case study of how mega sporting events are used as tools for urban development and global competitiveness. It situates the analysis within the broader transformation of urban governance from managerialism to entrepreneurialism, where decision-making involves a coalition of public and private actors. Hosting mega events is often justified by anticipated economic benefits and international visibility, but it also raises concerns about transparency, financial burden, and long-term viability. The Istanbul case demonstrates how political and business elites mobilised resources to implement the event, with promises of urban regeneration, infrastructure improvement, and tourism growth. At the same time, it highlights challenges such as reliance on public subsidies, uneven distribution of benefits, and the contested legacy of mega-event planning.