F1 Announces a Two-Year Agreement to Race in Portugal starting in 2027

Formula 1 has announced a new two-year agreement with the Portuguese government, Turismo de Portugal, and promoter Parkalgar, Parques Tecnológicos e Desportivos, S.A., ensuring that the Portuguese Grand Prix will return to the calendar for the 2027 and 2028 seasons.

President and CEO of Formula 1, Stefano Domenicali said:

"I'm delighted to see Portimão return to the Formula 1 calendar and for the sport to continue to ignite the passion for our incredible Portugese fanbase... The interest and demand to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix is the highest that it has ever been..."

The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, more commonly known as Portimão, was raced at during the 2020 and 2021 seasons and quickly became a fan favorite before it was removed from the calendar all together. The 4.6km Portimão circuit is often described as a "high-speed rollercoaster." The track is renowned for its dramatic elevation changes and layout that tests the limits of the drivers and cars.

Jaime Costa, the Chairman and CEO of Autódromo Internacional do Algarve said:

"Portimão's unique "rollercoaster" layout will challenge the best drivers in the world and create a spectacle that fans will love."

Portugal’s history with Formula 1 dates back to the first Grand Prix held in Porto in 1958. Over the sport’s 75-year history, venues like Monsanto and the iconic Estoril have hosted F1 various times.

In more recent years, the Portimão circuit has left a mark on the F1 world, cementing itself as the circuit where Lewis Hamilton secured his 92nd career victory. This saw Hamilton surpass Michael Schumacher's long-standing record for the most all-time wins. As it stands, Hamilton remains the only driver on the current grid to have tasted victory at the Algarve circuit, having also won the inaugural race there in 2020.

The Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion of Portugal, Manuel Castro Almeida said:

"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."

The return of the Portuguese Grand Prix in 2027 is expected to provide a significant boost to local tourism and further solidify the country's status as a premier destination for international sports. Formula 1 continues to grow and with the expansion of their calendar and highlight Portugal as a race destination and fan hot-spot is sure to enhance the excitement for the coming seasons.