Formula 1 returning to Portugal in 2027

In the 2027 season, the Portuguese Grand Prix will return to the calendar, replacing the Dutch Grand Prix, and will be held at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão.

Since hosting races during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, the Portuguese government has been eager for the Grand Prix to return, and this will take place after the expiration of the contract with Zandvoort.

At present, a two-year contract is being discussed, with the Portuguese Grand Prix planned to be held in the 2027 and 2028 seasons.

Stefano Domenicali: “I’m delighted to see Portimão return to the Formula 1 calendar and for the sport to continue to ignite the passion of our incredible Portuguese fanbase. 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, so I would like to thank Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, the Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion of Portugal, Manuel Castro Almeida, the Secretary of State for Tourism, Commerce and Services, Pedro Machado, President of Turismo de Portugal, Carlos Abade, President of the Algarve Tourist Board, Andre Gomes and CEO and Chairman of the Algarve International Circuit, Jaime Costa, for their support in bringing F1 back to Portugal.

I look forward to working together again to ensure that Portimão returns to the calendar in emphatic style”.

Manuel Castro Almeida, Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion of Portugal: “Portugal is back on the Formula 1 map. The F1 Grande Prémio de Portugal will have a direct impact on economic activity, generating opportunities throughout the economic chain – from tourism to trade, and services to SMEs – projecting the country as a competitive and reliable destination.

Hosting the Grand Prix in the Algarve reinforces our regional development strategy, enhancing the value of the territories and creating opportunities for local economies. This will be an event that, in addition to being a source of prestige for our country, will enhance Portugal’s image throughout the world”.

Jaime Costa, Chairman and CEO of Autódromo Internacional do Algarve: “We are thrilled to welcome Formula 1 back to Portugal and to the Autódromo 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. Portimão’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”.

Portugal has hosted Formula 1 races on 18 occasions since 1958, albeit intermittently. The first race took place on the Boavista Street Circuit. In 1959, the event was held at the Monsanto Park Circuit, before returning to Boavista in 1960.

After that race, Portugal dropped off the calendar and did not return until 1984, when the Estoril Circuit was introduced. Races were held there until 1996. The Grands Prix scheduled for 1997 and 1998 were cancelled after promised renovation and upgrade works were not completed.

The Portuguese Grand Prix was not included in the initially confirmed 2020 calendar. However, it was added to a revised schedule due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In that race, Lewis Hamilton claimed his 92nd victory, surpassing Michael Schumacher. The most recent race in Portugal was held in 2021.