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August 5, 2026
Portugal has secured a two-year deal to host the Portuguese Grand Prix on the Formula 1 calendar for the 2027 and 2028 seasons.
This announcement marks a significant revival for the Algarve International Circuit in Portimão, bringing back one of the sport’s most dynamic venues after a six-year absence from the championship schedule.
The agreement, forged between Formula One Management, the Portuguese government, Turismo de Portugal, and local promoter Parkalgar, Parques Tecnológicos e Desportivos, S.A., underscores a strategic shift in the global racing landscape as F1 continues to balance its expanding calendar with iconic circuits that deliver unparalleled excitement.
The return of the Portuguese Grand Prix to Portimão is particularly poignant given the circuit’s recent history.
During the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, the 4.6-kilometer track emerged as a vital stand-in venue, hosting two memorable rounds amid widespread calendar disruptions.
Drivers and fans alike were captivated by its undulating layout, featuring dramatic elevation changes of over 60 meters, blind crests, and high-speed sweeps that tested the limits of the cars and the precision of the pilots.
Lewis Hamilton claimed victory in both events, showcasing his mastery on a circuit that rewarded aggressive overtaking and tire management, while the passionate Portuguese crowd created an electric atmosphere despite restricted capacities.
The Portuguese Grand Prix will replace the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, which has been confirmed to exit the calendar after 2026, allowing the sport to rotate venues while maintaining a diverse mix of European races.
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“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,” F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said.
“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.”
Jaime Costa, CEO of the circuit, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Formula 1 back to Portugal and to the Algarve International Circuit in Portimão.
“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.”
Historically, Portugal’s bond with Formula 1 runs deep, dating back to the inaugural Portuguese Grand Prix in 1958 at Porto’s Boavista street circuit, followed by events at Monsanto and the iconic Estoril near Lisbon.
Estoril in particular hosted 16 races from 1984 to 1996 becoming synonymous with legendary moments such as Ayrton Senna’s first Grand Prix pole position and victory in 1985, as well as Alain Prost’s title-clinching drives.
The circuit’s fast, flowing corners and unpredictable weather added layers of drama, cementing its status in F1 lore.
Portimão, designed by architect Fidélis Marques da Silva and opened in 2009, represents a modern evolution of this legacy, blending contemporary facilities with a challenging asphalt ribbon that climbs and dives through the hillside.
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