Portimao back on F1 calendar for 2027 and 2028

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Formula 1 fans can start marking their calendars: the Algarve International Circuit near Portimao is set to make a thrilling return to the F1 calendar for the 2027 and 2028 seasons, stepping in for Zandvoort after the Dutch circuit’s six-year run comes to an end.

The Portuguese track has a brief history with the sport, having hosted F1 during the COVID-affected 2020 and 2021 seasons. Both races saw Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton claim victory, with Valtteri Bottas and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen completing the podium across the two events.

But Portugal’s F1 story goes back further: the country held 13 races at Estoril near Lisbon from 1984 to 1996 but staged its very first Grands Prix between 1958 and 1960 – two on a street track in Porto, and one at Lisbon’s treacherous Monsanto Park Circuit.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed his excitement over the announcement:

“I’m delighted to see Portimao return to the Formula 1 calendar and for the sport to continue to ignite the passion of our incredible Portuguese fanbase,” said the Italian.

“The circuit delivers on-track excitement from the first corner to the chequered flag, and its energy lifts fans out of their seats. The interest and demand to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix is the highest that it has ever been.”

Portimao Boss Welcomes F1 Return

The circuit itself is equally enthusiastic about welcoming the pinnacle of motorsport back to southern Portugal. Jaime Costa, CEO of the Algarve International Circuit, highlighted both the sporting and economic significance of the return.

“We are thrilled to welcome Formula 1 back to Portugal and to the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve.

“The Portuguese Grand Prix will showcase the excellence of our circuit and the passion of our fans, delivering a powerful boost for our tourism, region, and community.

“This achievement was only made possible with the continuous support – since the beginning – of the Portuguese Government.

“Portimao’s unique 'rollercoaster' layout will challenge the best drivers in the world and create a spectacle that fans will love.

“We look forward to creating unforgettable moments and setting new standards of excellence on and off the track.”

Read also: FIA updates Formula 1 testing and Sprint rules for 2026

Portimao is known for its dramatic elevation changes, sweeping corners, and challenging braking zones – a layout that has consistently tested drivers and thrilled fans alike.

Its return promises not just a race, but an experience, bringing high-octane action to Portugal once again while providing a welcome boost for the local community and tourism.

With the announcement official, excitement is already building for a Portuguese Grand Prix that is expected to combine history, spectacle, and all the adrenaline that F1 fans have come to crave.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.