F1 roars back to Portugal - Portimao secures double Grand Prixs deal for 2027 & 2028

 

Formula One (F1), Portuguese Government, Turismo de Portgual and Parkalgar, the event promoters. Have announced F1 will return to Portugal as part of a two year agreement with the Grand Prix being staged at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve (Portimao). The event is expected to boost tourism, trade and regional development, while showcasing Portugal’s motorsport heritage after previously hosting F1 in 2020 and 2021 during the COVID-19 calendar reshuffle.

Reigniting Portuguese passion and strengthening F1’s presence in Southern Europe. Portugal has a prestigious F1 history with races in Porto, Monsanto and Estoril since 1958.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula One said: “I’m delighted to see Portimao return to the Formula One calendar and for the sport to continue to ignite the passion of our incredible Portuguese fanbase.”

Iconic moments include Ayrton Senna’s first win at Estoril (1985) and Lewis Hamilton surpassing Michael Schumacher’s win record at Portimao (2021). The government sees the Grand Prix as a driver of economic activity, boosting tourism, SMEs and Portugal’s global image.

Set in the idyllic Algarve in Portugal’s southernmost region, known for its spectacular beaches and historic charm, the 4.6km circuit offers drivers a technical challenge with dramatic elevation changes culminating in a plunge down to the final right hander leading back to the pit straight.

Jaime Costa, Chairman and CEO of Autodromo Internacional do Algarve said: “Portimao’s unique ‘rollercoaster’ layout will challenge the best drivers in the world and create a spectacle that fans will love.”

With Portugal having a prestigious history in F1, hosting its first Grand Prix in Porto in 1958 as well as being race weekends in Monsanto and Estoril across the sport’s 75 years.

Manuel Castro Almeida, Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion of Portugal said: “Hosting the Grand Prix in the Algarve reinforces our regional development strategy, enhancing the value of the territories and creating opportunities for local economies.”

Some of the greatest drivers in F1 have reached the top step on the podium in Portugal including Stirling Moss, Alain Prost, Senna and Nigel Mansell.

📸 Imagery courtesy of Formula One