A popular Grand Prix will return to the F1 calendar on a two-year deal as Stefano Domenicali’s plot to shake up the series continues with a government-backed agreement

The Portuguese Grand Prix will return to the F1 calendar in 2027(Image: PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA/AFP via Getty Images)

Everything you need to know about the Portuguese Grand Prix after its return to the Formula One calendar was confirmed as part of a two-year agreement.

Return to Portimao: The Algarve International Circuit in Portimão is set for a return to the Formula 1 calendar for the 2027 season, six years after its last appearance. F1 confirmed on Tuesday that the popular 4.6km track will return on a two-year agreement.
Government influence: In Tuesday’s press release, F1 confirmed that the deal to bring Portimao back to the schedule was agreed with the Portuguese government, Turismo de Portugal, and the event’s promoter.
Domenicali’s delight: F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali was ecstatic to get the deal over the line. “I’m delighted to see Portimão return to the Formula One calendar and for the sport to continue to ignite the passion of our incredible Portuguese fanbase,” he declared. “The circuit delivers on-track excitement from the first corner to the chequered flag, and its energy lifts fans out of their seats.”
Driver favourite: The circuit is known for its extreme undulations and challenging, rollercoaster-like characteristics, making it popular with many drivers. After driving the track, Lewis Hamilton remarked that “The undulations are incredible” and that there are “a lot of places where you can’t see where you’re going.”
Verstappen’s gripe: However, the track’s unique surface and conditions were not universally praised by the drivers during its two prior appearances on the calendar. Max Verstappen was critical, stating in 2021, “I didn’t enjoy one single lap this weekend, just because of the state of the track.”
Grip issues: Verstappen’s main complaint centred on the lack of grip, which made it difficult to keep the cars under control and within the track limits. He further lamented that while “the layout is amazing, the grip we are experiencing, I don’t think is nice.”