Formula 1 has confirmed a major calendar shake-up, with Portugal set to make a dramatic return to the championship from the 2027 season. The sport has agreed a new two-year deal to race at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, better known as the Portimão circuit.
Portimão's Technical Challenge Awaits Drivers
The 4.6-kilometre track last hosted F1 during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, providing a popular and challenging alternative. The circuit is renowned for its significant elevation changes and a dramatic, plunging final right-hand corner that leads back onto the pit straight, offering what F1 bosses describe as a supreme technical test for the drivers.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, expressed his delight at the news. "I am thrilled to see Portimão return to the Formula 1 calendar and for our sport to continue to ignite the passion of our incredible Portuguese fans," he stated. "The circuit delivers excitement from the first corner to the chequered flag, and its energy lifts fans from their seats. I look forward to us working together to ensure Portimão returns to the calendar in style."
A Circuit Steeped in Modern F1 History
Portimão holds a special place in recent F1 lore. It was the scene of Lewis Hamilton's record-breaking 92nd Grand Prix victory in 2020, which saw him surpass Michael Schumacher's all-time wins record. Hamilton, the only current driver to have won at the circuit, also triumphed there in 2021.
These two pandemic-era races marked the first time F1 had visited Portugal since 1996. The country's Grand Prix history, however, stretches back much further. Portugal hosted its first F1 World Championship race in 1958 on the streets of Porto. Other venues have included Monsanto Park and the Estoril circuit, which witnessed Ayrton Senna's maiden Grand Prix victory in 1985.
Calendar Reshuffle Sees Portugal Replace The Netherlands
The return of the Portuguese Grand Prix comes as part of an ongoing evolution of the F1 schedule. Portugal will effectively replace the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, which is scheduled to host its final race for the foreseeable future next year before being dropped from the calendar.
This move reintroduces a classic European track with a passionate fanbase and a reputation for producing exciting racing. The deal ensures that the thrilling sights and sounds of Formula 1 will once again echo through the Algarve hills from 2027, adding another iconic chapter to Portugal's rich motorsport history.
