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Formula 1 has officially announced the return of the Portuguese Grand Prix to the World Championship calendar in 2027 and 2028, with races set to take place at the iconic Algarve International Circuit in Portimão — a track fondly remembered by fans and drivers for its thrilling corners and vibrant atmosphere. The announcement was made in December 2025 by Formula 1 authorities, in partnership with the Portuguese Government and local promoters, following the departure of the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort after the 2026 season.
The two-year agreement was formalised between Formula 1, the Government of Portugal, Turismo de Portugal and the promoter Parkalgar, reaffirming the country’s presence on motorsport’s biggest stage. The official race dates will be confirmed in June 2026, when Formula 1 releases the full calendar for the 2027 season.
The Algarve Circuit, stretching 4.6 kilometres and renowned for its highly technical layout, previously hosted Formula 1 races in 2020 and 2021, when the championship expanded its calendar during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Portimão races produced memorable moments, including victories by Lewis Hamilton — who secured his 92nd career win at the circuit in 2021, surpassing Michael Schumacher’s long-standing record and cementing Portimão’s place in Formula 1 history.
Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali highlighted the significance of the return: “I am very pleased to see Portimão back on the Formula 1 calendar and for the sport to continue igniting the passion of Portugal’s fantastic fan base. The circuit delivers excitement from the first corner to the chequered flag.”
The return of Formula 1 to Portugal is also viewed as a strategic driver of international promotion and socio-economic development. Local authorities, including the president of the Algarve Hotel Association, have emphasised the positive impact such a major event can generate — particularly during quieter tourism periods — by attracting visitors, stimulating business and strengthening the Algarve’s image as a global destination for sporting and cultural experiences.
Portugal has a long-standing Formula 1 tradition, beginning with the first Portuguese Grand Prix in 1958 in Porto, continuing with races at the Estoril Circuit between 1984 and 1996, and now returning in a meaningful way with Portimão — adding a new chapter to the historic relationship between the country and global motorsport.
The decision also reflects a broader trend in Formula 1 calendar adjustments, as the sport seeks to balance a record number of races (currently 24) with the inclusion of classic circuits and emerging markets, without compromising sporting quality.
The return of the Portuguese Grand Prix to Portimão represents more than just a sporting event: it reaffirms the cultural and economic power of Formula 1, signalling a championship that balances tradition, spectacle and global relevance — and delivering excellent news for fans who have long awaited the comeback of one of Europe’s most challenging and beloved circuits.
