F1 will return to Portugal in the 2027 and 2028 seasons with the addition of a race in Portimao.
Portimao hosted two races during the coronavirus-affected season that required additional venues to be decided at short notice, with the October 2020 race followed by the May 2021 race. This marks the return of the Portuguese Grand Prix for the first time since Estoril in 1996, and has reignited interest in its future inclusion on the calendar.
F1 has now confirmed Portimao will be included in the 2027 and 2028 schedule, effectively replacing the canceled Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort after next season.
F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “I am delighted to see Portimao return to the F1 calendar and to see the sport continue to ignite the passion of our amazing Portuguese fan base.” “This circuit delivers on-track excitement from the first corner to the checkered flag, and the energy will get fans out of their seats.”
Domenicali said that despite the short-term nature of the deal, interest in hosting an F1 race was at an all-time high, while circuit president Jaime Costa said government support was essential for Portimao’s return.
“We are excited to welcome F1 back to Portugal and the Algarve Autodromo Internacional do Algarve,” said Costa. “The Portuguese Grand Prix will showcase the wonders of our circuit and the passion of our fans, delivering a strong boost to our tourism, region and community.
“This feat was only possible with the continued support of the Portuguese government since its inception. Portimao’s unique ‘roller coaster’ layout will challenge the world’s best drivers and create a spectacle that will be loved by fans. We look forward to creating unforgettable moments and setting new standards of excellence on and off the track.”
Portimao’s return comes a year after the second race of the season will be held in neighboring Spain, with new events in Barcelona and Madrid on the 2026 calendar. F1 is also attracting interest from the possibility of races in Thailand, where progress is thought to be in doubt due to a border dispute with Cambodia, and Argentina, where track improvements are being made for MotoGP in Buenos Aires.
