Portimão is back on the calendar, promising pure racing in 2027 and 2028.

Formula 1 has officially confirmed its return to Portugal in 2027 and 2028, following a two-year agreement with the Portuguese government, Turismo de Portugal, and promoter Parkalgar. The announcement brings one of the most demanding and visually striking circuits of the modern era back onto the calendar: the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, widely known as Portimão.

The Portuguese venue played a crucial role during Formula 1’s return to racing amid the Covid-19 pandemic, hosting Grands Prix in 2020 and 2021. Its comeback now comes at a very different moment, with the sport experiencing unprecedented global growth and record demand from potential hosts.

Set in the southern Algarve region, Portimão blends iconic scenery, historic character and world-class motorsport. On track, the 4.6km circuit is defined by dramatic elevation changes, blind corners and a steep plunge into the final right-hander leading onto the pit straight — a layout that tests both driver commitment and car balance.

Portugal holds a prestigious place in Formula 1 history. The country hosted its first Grand Prix in 1958, with races also held at Monsanto and Estoril throughout the championship’s 75-year story. Legendary winners include Stirling Moss, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna and Nigel Mansell, with Senna famously claiming his first F1 victory at Estoril in 1985.

More recently, Portimão became part of modern F1 folklore when Lewis Hamilton surpassed Michael Schumacher’s all-time wins record, securing his 92nd victory in 2021. Hamilton remains the only current grid driver to have won at the circuit, having also taken victory in 2020.

Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali welcomed the return, praising both the racing and the fans:
“I’m delighted to see Portimão return to the Formula 1 calendar. The circuit delivers excitement from the first corner to the chequered flag, and its energy lifts fans out of their seats.”

He also highlighted the intense global competition to host races and thanked the Portuguese authorities for their support, promising that Portimão’s comeback will be delivered “in emphatic style.”

Portuguese Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion Manuel Castro Almeida emphasized the broader impact:
“Portugal is back on the Formula 1 map. The Grand Prix will have a direct impact on economic activity, from tourism to trade and services, projecting the country as a competitive and reliable destination.”

Meanwhile, Jaime Costa, Chairman and CEO of the Algarve International Circuit, focused on the sporting challenge:
“Portimão’s unique rollercoaster layout will challenge the best drivers in the world and create a spectacle that fans will love.”

Portugal’s return is more than a calendar update. It is a statement. Formula 1 is bringing back a circuit that rewards bravery, punishes mistakes and delivers unforgettable racing. In 2027 and 2028, Portimão will once again take center stage.

Thumbnail credits: © Carlos Caetano | Dreamstime.com