Formula 1 Returns to Portugal in 2027 and 2028
Formula 1 is set to make a comeback in Portugal in 2027 and 2028, thanks to a new deal with the Portimão circuit in the Algarve region. The 2.891-mile circuit, which was built in 2008, has previously hosted two grands prix during the pandemic in 2020 and 2021. The new two-year deal has been struck by F1 with the Portuguese government, Turismo de Portugal, and promoter Parkalgar, Parques Tecnológicos e Desportivos, S.A.
The 2027 race will take the place of the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, which is due to host the final race of its contract in 2026 and will not renew for 2027. The Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will also be in the final year of its contract next season. According to F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, “I’m delighted to see Portimão return to the Formula 1 calendar and for the sport to continue to ignite the passion of our incredible Portuguese fanbase.” Domenicali also praised the circuit, saying it “delivers on-track excitement from the first corner to the chequered flag, and its energy lifts fans out of their seats.”
Expanding the Formula 1 Calendar
Formula 1 currently has a calendar of 24 races, with the majority of its contracts with circuits running into the 2030s. A street race in Madrid is due to be added to the calendar next year, with the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix at Imola dropping off. The Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps is due to move onto a rotational contract in 2027, meaning it will then take place every other year until 2031. However, the new deal with Portimao is not a part of that deal.
A number of new grands prix are in the running to join the calendar in the coming years, including a Thai Grand Prix, potentially as early as 2028, as well as candidates vying to fulfil F1’s long-held desire of hosting a race on the African continent. With the interest and demand to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix at an all-time high, according to Domenicali, it will be exciting to see which new locations are added to the calendar in the future.
A New Era for Formula 1
The return of Formula 1 to Portugal is a significant development for the sport, and it highlights the growing popularity of F1 around the world. With a strong fanbase in Portugal and a circuit that delivers exciting racing, the 2027 and 2028 races are sure to be highly anticipated events. As the sport continues to expand its calendar and reach new audiences, it will be interesting to see how the new deals and locations shape the future of Formula 1.
For more information on the Formula 1 calendar and upcoming races, visit the official Formula 1 website. With its rich history, exciting racing, and growing global reach, Formula 1 is a sport that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
