Formula 1 will return to Portugal’s Algarve International Circuit for the 2027 and 2028 seasons, replacing the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort after its final event in 2026. The announcement ends six years of Zandvoort on the F1 calendar and signals a revived opportunity for Portugal to host top level racing.
The change reflects Formula 1’s ongoing strategy to balance a busy 24-race schedule with strong global demand for events, while also rotating historically significant venues back into the championship.
A New Home for the Portuguese Grand Prix
The Algarve International Circuit, also known as Portimão, first hosted Formula 1 during the 2020 and 2021 seasons in the unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. In those years the track stepped in as a temporary venue and quickly earned praise from drivers and fans for its undulating layout and engaging racing.
Portuguese racing enthusiasts will remember the track for the place where Lewis Hamilton secured his record-breaking 92nd career victory in 2020. He also won the 2021 race, helping cement Portimão’s reputation as an exciting venue for both drivers and spectators.
Portugal has a long history with Formula 1, with Grands Prix held at circuits such as Porto, Monsanto and Estoril in the past. The return to the Algarve continues that tradition while bringing F1 back after a six-year absence following the last Portuguese GP in 2021.
Why the Switch From Zandvoort
Zandvoort’s first return to the F1 calendar was in 2021, ending a long gap since its last world championship race decades earlier. Its inclusion was boosted by the strong home support for Max Verstappen and a surge in fan enthusiasm in the Netherlands. The race quickly became one of Europe’s most popular events.
However, Zandvoort’s contract runs only through the 2026 season, and it will not appear on the calendar beyond that. Formula 1 officials confirmed that the Dutch Grand Prix will end after its planned 2025 and 2026 races. This leaves a slot open in the European portion of the schedule.
Formula 1 management sees the Algarve return as a strong replacement. The sport’s chief executive has said interest from potential host venues remains high, and that rotating European rounds helps maintain variety while preserving the sport’s overall 24-race limit.
What Makes Portimão Special
The Algarve International Circuit stands out for its dramatic elevation changes, fast bends and challenging layout. Built in 2008 and homologated for top class racing, the track has hosted major international motorsport events including World Superbike, European Le Mans Series races and GP2.
Portimão’s layout suits drivers who enjoy rhythm and precision. The combination of high speed and technical sections rewards bravery and control. This is part of why it gained positive reviews during its brief F1 appearances.
Beyond Formula 1, the circuit has been a regular in global motorsport calendars, hosting events across categories from endurance to touring cars. Its FIA Grade 1 certification means it meets the highest standards required for Formula 1 competition.
Track History and Notable Moments
Before its inclusion as a host circuit in 2020 and 2021, the Algarve International Circuit was used for testing by Formula 1 teams in 2008 and briefly in 2009 during pre-season sessions. The track’s challenging curves and elevation changes were praised even then as drivers tested prototype cars.
The 2021 Portuguese Grand Prix brought the sport back to Portimão with Lewis Hamilton winning from second place, showcasing how the circuit could handle world championship-level competition.
Although the Portimao races were held under unique pandemic conditions, they sparked widespread interest for a permanent return. Fans and teams alike highlighted the circuit’s atmosphere and racing quality.
Economic and Regional Impact
Portugal’s government and local authorities have backed the Formula 1 return, seeing it as an opportunity to boost tourism and regional development in the Algarve region. Hosting world championship events brings global exposure and attracts visitors from around Europe and beyond.
The two-year deal for 2027 and 2028 also reflects broader economic goals. Portugal has emphasised its ability to support large scale sporting events and infrastructure, something it demonstrated with the return of MotoGP and other international competitions.
What This Means for Fans and Teams
For fans, the return of Portimão means a classic racing venue with a passionate atmosphere and a layout that encourages close competition. The circuit’s inclusion will give fans a taste of historic European racing once again and offer variety alongside established venues such as Silverstone, Monza and Spa-Francorchamps.
For teams and drivers, Algarve presents a return to a track with elevation changes and technical demands. Its challenging design will test cars under braking, cornering and high speed transitions. This helps create races where driver skill plays a central role.
Closing Thoughts
The addition of the Algarve International Circuit for the 2027 and 2028 Formula 1 seasons marks a meaningful shift in the sport’s European programme. After six years at Zandvoort, the Dutch Grand Prix will bow out, making room for Portugal’s return at Portimão.
The history of Portimão in Formula 1 may be brief, but the passion and excitement it generated in 2020 and 2021 left a lasting impression. Now, with a confirmed multi-year deal, the Algarve will once again take centre stage as Formula 1 returns to a classic racing venue with a modern presence.
