Formula 1 has officially announced the return of the Portuguese Grand Prix, with the sport set to race at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão from 2027 under a fresh two-year agreement.
Portimão's Pandemic Heroics and Technical Challenge
The 4.6-kilometre Portimão circuit last hosted Formula 1 during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, providing a vital venue when the calendar was in flux. The track, known for its dramatic elevation changes and a final plunging right-hander leading back to the pit straight, is praised for offering a significant technical challenge to drivers.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, expressed his delight at the news. "I'm delighted to see Portimão return to the Formula 1 calendar and for the sport to continue to ignite the passion of our incredible Portuguese fanbase," he said. "The circuit delivers on-track excitement from the first corner to the chequered flag, and its energy lifts fans out of their seats."
A Circuit Steeped in Modern History
Portimão's recent F1 outings were historic. It was the scene where Lewis Hamilton secured his record-breaking 92nd Grand Prix victory in 2020, surpassing Michael Schumacher's long-standing record for most wins. Hamilton, the only current driver to have won at the circuit, took victories in both 2020 and 2021.
The deal means Portugal will effectively replace the Dutch Grand Prix on the calendar, with Zandvoort set to host its final race next year before being dropped.
Portugal's Rich Racing Heritage
Portugal's relationship with Formula 1 stretches back decades. The nation first hosted a Grand Prix in 1958 in Porto, with other races held at Monsanto and the famous Estoril circuit. The two pandemic-era races marked F1's first return to Portuguese soil since 1996.
The list of past winners of the Portuguese Grand Prix reads like a who's who of racing legends:
- Stirling Moss
- Alain Prost (three-time winner)
- Ayrton Senna (his first Grand Prix win came at Estoril in 1985)
- Nigel Mansell (three-time winner)
The confirmation of Portimão's return ensures this storied heritage will continue, bringing high-octane action back to Portugal's Algarve region from the 2027 season.
