Formula One to Return to Portugal in 2027

In 2027 and 2028, the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve will make a return to the Formula 1 calendar on a 2-year contract. 

(Image credits to Formula One)

The Portuguese circuit, commonly known as Portimao, was last on the calendar in 2021, where Lewis Hamilton took his 92nd victory, passing Michael Schumacher’s record. This also makes Hamilton the only driver on the circuit to have won here, also taking the flag in 2020. He was followed onto the podium in 2021 by Max Verstappen and Valtteri Bottas.

The 4.6km circuit was built in 2008 and is in a country with a rich Formula One history. Legend Aryton Senna took his first win in Portugal, putting him on a list among the other greats to have won in Portugal, including Moss, Prost and Mansell. Over the years, it has provided Formula One with some historic races that won’t be forgotten. It has held a total of two Grand Prixs, acting as a filler during the COVID-19 pandemic when global travel was restricted. However, this doesn’t mean it doesn’t deserve its place on the calendar. 

Many fans are excited about this addition as it is one of the more standard and enjoyed circuits across other series, such as the World Endurance Championship. For many, this addition has come as a shock with many historical and traditional tracks recently being replaced with new street circuits.

The track is set to replace the Dutch Grand Prix which is leaving the calendar after 2026. Both of these tracks have some contractual similarities, having previously hosted Formula One races and being given short contracts. Shorter contracts aren’t commonly seen in the current Formula One calendar, with multiple races having been given 10-year contracts renewed this season. It springs the idea that Portimao is possibly being used as a filler track once again until F1 reaches a deal with a highly desired Grand Prix, such as one in Africa or even Thailand.

Currently, there are 24 races in the Formula One season, with most races having contracts past 2030. Along with the Dutch Grand Prix, Imola’s future has also been dropped in favour of the Madrid street circuit. There are many new tracks in the running to join the new rotation calendar being implemented from 2028 onwards, joining the likes of Spa. This circuit, however, isn’t on a rotating contract, and instead on a 2-year contract, which means this could result in the loss of another historic track or a growth in the calendar to make room for it. 

Article written by Imogen Moggridge © Imogen Moggridge 2025