The Formula One calendar is about to regain a venue that drivers and fans remember vividly for its drama, elevation changes, and electric atmosphere.
After several years away, Portugal is officially set to return to the F1 schedule, bringing one of the sport’s most distinctive modern circuits back into the spotlight.
Portimão Locked In for a 2027 Comeback
Formula One has confirmed a new two-year agreement that will see Portugal host Grands Prix again starting in 2027.
The races will take place at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, more commonly known as Portimão, a circuit that last featured on the calendar during the disrupted Covid-19 seasons of 2020 and 2021.
Those pandemic-era races reintroduced Portugal to a new generation of fans and reminded the paddock just how demanding the Algarve track can be.
A Circuit That Tests Skill and Nerve
Stretching 4.6 kilometres, Portimão is widely regarded as one of the most technically challenging circuits in Europe.
Drivers are forced to deal with blind crests, dramatic elevation changes, and a flowing layout that rewards precision and bravery.
The lap builds toward a steep drop into the final right-hander, which fires cars back onto the pit straight and often sets up late-race drama.
Formula One believes the circuit’s unique characteristics will deliver strong racing and keep fans engaged from lights out to the chequered flag.
Domenicali Praises Portuguese Passion
Formula One president and CEO Stefano Domenicali made it clear that fan energy played a major role in the decision to bring Portimão back.
He said he was thrilled to see the circuit return and highlighted the enthusiasm of Portuguese supporters, noting that the track consistently produces exciting on-track action.
Domenicali added that he is looking forward to working closely with local organisers to ensure the Portuguese Grand Prix makes a powerful and memorable return.
Portugal Steps In as Zandvoort Steps Away
Portugal’s return also signals a change elsewhere on the calendar.
The Portuguese Grand Prix will effectively replace the Dutch Grand Prix, with Zandvoort set to host Formula One for the final time next year before dropping off the schedule.
It marks a shift in Europe’s race lineup, but one that restores a venue many drivers openly enjoy racing on.
A Circuit Linked to F1 History and Hamilton Milestones
Portimão already holds a special place in modern Formula One history.
The circuit was where Lewis Hamilton surpassed Michael Schumacher’s all-time wins record, claiming his 92nd career victory in 2021.
Hamilton remains the only current driver on the grid to have won at Portimão, having taken victories in both 2020 and 2021, further cementing his legacy at the track.
A Long and Storied Portuguese Grand Prix Legacy
The Covid-era races were significant not just for the present, but for reconnecting Formula One with Portugal after a long absence.
Before 2020, the country had not hosted an F1 race since 1996.
Portugal’s Grand Prix story dates all the way back to 1958, when Porto staged the nation’s first race.
Over the years, Monsanto and Estoril also played host, with Estoril becoming particularly famous during the 1980s and 1990s.
Legends Who Conquered Portuguese Tarmac
Some of the sport’s greatest names have tasted victory on Portuguese soil.
Stirling Moss, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna, and Nigel Mansell are all former winners of the Portuguese Grand Prix.
Prost and Mansell each claimed three victories in the country, while Senna’s 1985 win at Estoril remains especially memorable as it marked the very first Grand Prix victory of his legendary career.
Looking Ahead to 2027
With history, fan passion, and a demanding circuit all aligning, Portugal’s return feels like a natural fit for Formula One’s future calendar.
As 2027 approaches, attention will now turn to how Portimão can once again deliver the kind of racing moments that made it so unforgettable just a few seasons ago.
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