Portimão Set to Rejoin F1 Calendar in 2027
Portimão, a picturesque locale known for its stunning coastline, is making a triumphant return to the Formula 1 calendar for the 2027 season.
As the sport evolves, the Portuguese Grand Prix will grace the World Series roster for both the 2027 and 2028 seasons, filling the gap left by Zandvoort, which will bow out after 2026. This marks a notable shift, as Portimão prepares to take the helm in place of the Dutch circuit.
The modern circuit, nestled in the scenic Algarve region, last caught the spotlight during the pandemic-stricken seasons of 2020 and 2021. At that time, F1 was forced to adapt its calendar almost on a whim due to the Covid-19 crisis.
Making its debut in the autumn of 2020, the Grand Prix marked the first Formula 1 event in Portugal in a staggering 24 years, following the series’ earlier visits to Estoril from 1984 to 1996. The return was met with widespread acclaim from drivers and fans alike, though it was short-lived, as the race was dropped following the return to normalcy in 2021.
Remembrance of a Memorable Race
For Finnish fans, Portimão brings a mixture of nostalgia and drama.
In the 2020 race, Kimi Räikkönen, driving for Alfa Romeo, made headlines with an opening lap that became an instant classic. Starting from 16th on the grid, he dazzled spectators, maneuvering his way through the pack to rise to sixth place by the second lap. Social media buzzed with excitement, celebrating what was hailed as an extraordinary start for the veteran driver.
Yet, the following year told a different tale for Räikkönen. The 2021 Portuguese GP ended in disappointment for him as he collided with his teammate, Antonio Giovinazzi, on the opening lap, forcing an early retirement.
Nonetheless, it was Lewis Hamilton, piloting his Mercedes, who emerged victorious in both the 2020 and 2021 races, solidifying his dominance in the sport.
As we look toward 2027, the return of the Portuguese Grand Prix invites anticipation—both for the thrills on the track and the memories it will reignite for fans and drivers alike.