Formula 1 Rumor: Series returning to Portugal in 2027 and 2028 (Update)

This rumor is upgraded to ‘fact’ today.  Formula 1 has today announced that it will return to Portugal in 2027 and 2028 as part of a two-year agreement 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.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: “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. The circuit delivers on-track excitement from the first corner to the checkered flag, and its energy lifts fans out of their seats.

“The interest and demand to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix is the highest that it has ever been, so I would like to thank Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, the Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion of Portugal, Manuel Castro Almeida, the Secretary of State for Tourism, Commerce and Services, Pedro Machado, President of Turismo de Portugal, Carlos Abade, President of the Algarve Tourist Board, Andre Gomes and CEO and Chairman of the Algarve International Circuit, Jaime Costa, for their support in bringing F1 back to Portugal.

“I look forward to working together again to ensure that Portimão returns to the calendar in emphatic style.”

Manuel Castro Almeida, Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion of Portugal, said: “Portugal is back on the Formula 1 map. The F1 Grande Prémio de Portugal will have a direct impact on economic activity, generating opportunities throughout the economic chain – from tourism to trade, and services to SMEs – projecting the country as a competitive and reliable destination.

“Hosting the Grand Prix in the Algarve reinforces our regional development strategy, enhancing the value of the territories and creating opportunities for local economies. 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.”

Jaime Costa, Chairman and CEO of Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Formula 1 back to Portugal and to the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve. The Portuguese Grand Prix will showcase the excellence of our circuit and the passion of our fans, delivering a powerful boost for our tourism, region, and community.

“This achievement was only made possible with the continuous support – since the beginning – of the Portuguese Government. Portimão’s unique “rollercoaster” layout will challenge the best drivers in the world and create a spectacle that fans will love.

“We look forward to creating unforgettable moments and setting new standards of excellence on and off the track.”

On December 15, 2025, multiple Portuguese media outlets (including SIC Notícias and Observador) reported that the Portuguese Grand Prix Formula 1 race will return to the Autodromo do Algarve (also known as the Portimão Circuit) in both 2027 and 2028.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

This follows earlier announcements from Prime Minister Luís Montenegro in August 2025, expressing strong government intent and readiness to formalize the deal for 2027 onward.

The Algarve International Circuit is a 2.891-mile  race circuit located in Portimão, Algarve region, of southern Portugal.

The circuit, which hosted races in 2020 and 2021 (during the COVID-era calendar adjustments), has been praised by drivers for its challenging layout and elevation changes. The return aligns with potential openings on the calendar after the Dutch Grand Prix departs post-2026 and other European slots (e.g., possible rotation or changes involving Barcelona or Spa-Francorchamps).

Related Article: Hamilton beats Verstappen to win 2021 Portuguese GP

As of today (December 15, 2025), there is no official confirmation of the multi-year deal from Formula 1. The announcement will be officially made this Tuesday by the Minister of Economy, Manuel Castro Almeida.