Formula One has officially confirmed the return of the Portuguese Grand Prix to the championship calendar, with the event set to be held at the Algarve International Circuit in Portimao for the 2027 and 2028 seasons.
Portimao Replaces Zandvoort on Two-Year Deal
The popular Portuguese circuit will take the slot currently occupied by the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort under a new two-year agreement. Portimao previously hosted races in 2020 and 2021, stepping in during the pandemic when the regular F1 schedule faced major disruption.
F1 President Stefano Domenicali welcomed the news, saying he was "delighted" to bring the sport back to Portugal. He praised the circuit for delivering "on-track excitement from the first corner to the chequered flag" and highlighted its ability to ignite passion among the nation's dedicated fanbase.
A Circuit of Success for Lewis Hamilton
The Algarve track holds particularly fond memories for British racing legend Lewis Hamilton. He triumphed at the venue in 2020, a victory that played a crucial part in securing his historic seventh world championship title that season.
Hamilton followed this up with another win in Portugal in 2021, a result that saw him surpass Michael Schumacher's long-standing record for the most career Grand Prix victories. However, his form has dipped significantly since that high point.
The 40-year-old's move from Mercedes to Ferrari in 2025 proved challenging. He failed to secure a single podium finish throughout the season and was consistently outperformed by teammate Charles Leclerc, finishing a distant sixth in the drivers' standings, 86 points behind the Monegasque driver.
Historic Venue Makes a Welcome Comeback
The Portuguese Grand Prix has a long history in the sport, first taking place in Porto in 1958. It later found a home at the Estoril circuit from 1984 until 1996. After a lengthy absence, its successful pandemic-era appearances have now paved the way for a full return.
This revival comes as the 2025 title fight was contested without Hamilton, ultimately being decided on the final weekend between Lando Norris, who claimed his maiden championship, and Red Bull's Max Verstappen.
