Portugal’s Portimão circuit made a surprise return to Formula 1 with a two-year deal in 2027.
Portimão previously raced in 2020-21 as a backup circuit during the pandemic, with Lewis Hamilton winning twice.
advertise
The series has been canceled from 2022 as Formula 1 returns to a more traditional schedule, but officials announced on Tuesday that the series will be replaced by a two-year deal in 2027 and 2028.
The Portuguese Grand Prix will effectively replace the calendar of the Dutch Grand Prix, which will cease after 2026 after six years.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: “I am delighted to see Portimao return to Formula 1 and allow the sport to continue to ignite the passion of our incredible Portuguese fans.”
“This track is packed with on-track excitement from turn one to the checkered flag, and its energy has fans pumping out of their seats.”
advertise
The permanent 15-turn track, which features significant elevation changes throughout its flowing 2.9-mile layout, has received rave reviews from riders during its first two years of debut.
Lewis Hamilton celebrates his 2021 victory in Portimão. Gabrielle Buice – Getty Images
“We are delighted to welcome Formula 1 back to Portugal,” said Jaime Costa, CEO of Portimao. “Portimao’s unique ‘roller coaster’ layout will challenge the world’s best drivers and create a fan-favorite spectacle. We look forward to creating unforgettable moments and setting new standards of excellence on and off the track.”
What about other events?
The short-term deal in Portugal is effectively an equivalent replacement for the Dutch Grand Prix.
advertise
Organizers of the Zandvoort Grand Prix have chosen to call it a day after the event’s huge success, with the 2026 event set to feature a sprint race in what will be the sixth and final Grand Prix of its current series.
‘
Formula 1 will move the Spanish Grand Prix to the new semi-permanent Circuit de la Madryn from 2026, while Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will remain under the name Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix for one year.
Barcelona’s contract expires in 2026, meaning there is ostensibly a hole in the 24-match calendar for 2027, one that officials in the Catalan capital have been keen to keep in place.
advertise
Belgium’s bizarre four-match deal over six years means there is also a free slot in 2028 and 2030.
2025 Belgian Grand Prix. Clive Ross – Formula 1 – Getty Images
Formula 1 has been in discussions with Thai authorities for several years about taking the championship to the streets of the capital, Bangkok. Proposals are at an advanced stage but no agreement has yet been signed, with 2028 expected to be the earliest year a grand prix could be held for the first time.
The championship remains keen to return to Africa for the first time since 1993, but these remain long-term plans.
The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix has been held in Imola for five times in six years and will be discontinued after 2025.
