Formula 1 returns to Portugal in 2027 and 2028 after a two year agreement with the Portuguese government, Turismo de Portugal and circuit promoter Parkalgar, officially bringing Portimão back onto the calendar.
The announcement confirms the comeback of one of the most distinctive circuits of the modern era, four years after Formula 1 last raced at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve.
Why Formula 1 returns to Portugal
Portimão quickly earned its place in the spotlight when it joined the calendar in 2020. The circuit’s dramatic elevation changes, blind crests and flowing layout created a challenge that drivers openly praised, while fans were treated to races that felt raw, physical and unpredictable.
The Algarve venue also delivered one of the most iconic milestones in Formula 1 history. In 2021, Lewis Hamilton claimed his 92nd career victory at Portimão, surpassing Michael Schumacher’s all time win record. Hamilton remains the only current driver to have won at the circuit, having also taken victory there in 2020.
Portugal’s long standing Formula 1 legacy
Although Portimão is a modern addition, Portugal’s connection to Formula 1 runs deep. The country first hosted a World Championship race in Porto in 1958, before later events at Monsanto and Estoril. Over the decades, legends such as Stirling Moss, Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell and Ayrton Senna have all stood on the top step of the podium in Portugal.
Senna’s maiden Formula 1 victory at Estoril in 1985 remains one of the most significant moments in Portuguese motorsport history, further underlining why Formula 1 returns to Portugal carries symbolic weight as well as sporting value.
What Formula 1 returns to Portugal means for the calendar
With global demand to host Formula 1 at record levels, securing a slot on the calendar is increasingly competitive. Portimão’s return signals Formula 1’s willingness to reward circuits that have already proven their ability to deliver compelling racing and strong fan engagement.
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali highlighted the Algarve circuit’s ability to generate excitement from the opening lap to the chequered flag, as well as the passion of the Portuguese fanbase that turned Portimão into a standout venue during the pandemic era.
A timely return in a new Formula 1 era
Formula 1 returns to Portugal just one year after the introduction of the sport’s 2026 technical regulations. New generation cars combined with Portimão’s demanding layout are expected to create a fresh challenge for teams and drivers, testing car balance, tyre management and driver confidence.
As Formula 1 continues to expand globally, the return to Portimão restores a sense of balance between new destinations and circuits that have already delivered unforgettable moments.
