Portugal gearing up for Formula 1’s return in 2027, says PM

Portugal is preparing to bring Formula 1 back to the Algarve International Circuit in 2027, according to Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, who says the country is ready to “formalise” the race’s return.

Speaking at the Na Festa do Pontal political gathering, Montenegro outlined ambitious plans to restore the Portuguese Grand Prix to the global stage, pending official confirmation from Formula 1 authorities.

The move signals the country’s intent to reclaim its place in the sport’s elite calendar, leveraging the region’s growing reputation as a hub for world-class motorsport events.

The Algarve circuit, nestled in the sun-drenched hills near Portimão, last hosted Formula 1 races in 2020 and 2021, stepping in during the COVID-19 pandemic when other venues faltered.

Those races, won by Lewis Hamilton – including his record-breaking 92nd career victory in 2020 –captivated fans with the circuit’s challenging layout and scenic backdrop. Now, Montenegro’s announcement has sparked hope that the circuit could once again roar with the sound of F1 engines.

A Vision for Major Events

Montenegro framed the return of Formula 1 as part of a broader strategy to elevate the Algarve’s global profile through high-profile sporting events.

“One of the circumstances that most contributes to promoting this region is major events,” he said at the political meeting.

“We have secured the MotoGP, the world’s premier motorcycling event, for 2025 and 2026. And I can tell you that we have everything ready to formalise the return of Formula 1 to the Algarve next year, in 2027.”

The prime minister’s confidence appears rooted in Portugal’s recent success in hosting MotoGP at the same circuit since 2020, a testament to the venue’s versatility and appeal.

Portimão, with its undulating 4.6-kilometer track and modern facilities, has earned praise from drivers and fans alike. Yet, bringing Formula 1 back will require significant investment to meet the sport’s exacting standards, a challenge Montenegro acknowledged.

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“These events require some financial effort on the part of the government, but they have a direct financial return and an indirect promotional return that are, quite frankly, well worth it,” he said.

While Montenegro’s comments signal strong national backing, Formula 1 itself has not yet confirmed the race’s potential return. With the sport’s crowded schedule increasingly adopting a rotating calendar format, the Portuguese Grand Prix would be expected to slot in through such an arrangement.

Until then, the Algarve must wait for official confirmation from F1’s organizers. But if Montenegro’s words are to be taken at face value, the countdown to Portugal’s return to the championship has already begun.

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