Portimao circuit returns to F1

Formula 1 announced today that it will return to Portugal in 2027 and 2028, as part of a two-year agreement with the Portuguese government, Turismo de Portugal, and promoter Parkalgar, Parques Tecnológicos e Desportivos, S.A. The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, more commonly known as Portimao, hosted the last F1 events in 2020 and 2021, and was a key venue for the return to racing during the Covid-19 pandemic. Located in the idyllic Algarve, Portugal&#8217s southernmost region known for its spectacular beaches and historic charm, the 4.6-kilometer circuit offers drivers a technical challenge, with sudden changes in gradient culminating in a descent to the final right-hand corner that leads back to the pit straight.

Martino Davidi

Portugal has a prestigious history in Formula 1, having hosted its first Grand Prix in Porto in 1958, as well as hosting race weekends in Monsanto and Estoril in the 75-year history of the sport. Some of Formula 1’s greatest drivers have stood on the top step of the podium in Portugal, including Stirling Moss, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna and Nigel Mansell. Senna won his first Formula 1 Grand Prix at Estoril in 1985 and Niki Lauda his third and final world title in 1984. More recently, Portimao was the circuit where Lewis Hamilton surpassed Michael Schumacher&#8217s record of victories, earning his 92nd win in 2021. Hamilton remains the only driver on the current grid to have won on this circuit, having also crossed the finish line in 2020.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: “I am delighted to see Portimao return to the Formula 1 calendar and that the sport continues to ignite the passion of our incredible Portuguese fan base. The circuit offers excitement on the track from the first corner to the checkered flag, and its energy drags the fans up. The interest and demand to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix is the highest ever, so I would like to thank the Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, and Portugal&#8217s Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion, Manuel Castro Almeida, the Secretary of State for Tourism, Trade and Services, Pedro Machado, the President of Turismo de Portugal, Carlos Abade, the President of the;Algarve Tourism Board, André Gomes, and the CEO and President 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 Portimao returns to the calendar with great enthusiasm”.

Manuel Castro Almeida, Portugal&#8217s Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion, said: “Portugal is back on the Formula 1 map. Portugal&#8217s F1 Grand Prix will have a direct impact on economic activity, generating opportunities along the entire supply chain, from tourism to trade, from 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 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 improve Portugal’s image around the world”.

Jaime Costa, President and CEO of the’Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, said: “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, giving a strong boost to our tourism, our region and our community. This achievement has only been possible thanks to the continued support, from the very beginning, of the Portuguese government. The’exclusive ‘roller coaster’ Portimao track will test the world&#8217s best drivers 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.”