Last updated: 23/12/2025

The inclusion of Portimao reflects both its exciting layout – complete with dramatic elevation changes and technical corners, and its historic role in F1’s modern era, particularly during the pandemic. Below is a full historical overview, a list of notable winners, and what to expect from the circuit’s next era in Formula 1.

Portimão’s Historic Return to Formula 1

Portimão previously hosted F1 races in 2020 and 2021 – both part of a temporarily expanded calendar during the COVID-19 pandemic – and was widely praised by teams, drivers, and fans alike. The circuit is set to replace the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, which will drop off the calendar after 2026.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali highlighted the high global demand to host Grands Prix and emphasized how the Portimao Circuit offers “on-track excitement from the first corner to the chequered flag.”

A Deep Motorsport Legacy: Portuguese Grand Prix History

The race moved between a handful of venues over the decades:

• Circuito da Boavista (Porto) — Hosted in 1958 and 1960.
• Circuito de Monsanto (Lisbon) — Held in 1959.
• Circuito do Estoril (Estoril) — Served as the Portuguese GP venue from 1984 to 1996.
• Portimão (Autódromo Internacional do Algarve) — Hosted races in 2020 and 2021, and will do so again in 2027 and 2028.

After a long absence from 1997 through 2019, modern F1 returned to the Algarve during the pandemic. Both Portimão Grands Prix were celebrated for their competitive racing and breathtaking views.

Notable Winners at Portimão and Portugal

Autódromo Internacional do Algarve (Portimao Circuit)

These wins stand out not just for competitive performance, but also for the milestone moment in F1 history when Hamilton became the sport’s all-time wins leader at Portimão in 2020.

Portuguese Grand Prix Winners list (Estoril, Porto, Monsanto)

At Estoril, Ayrton Senna achieved his first Formula 1 victory in 1985, cementing Portugal’s place in F1 lore long before Portimão emerged as a modern racing highlight.

Why is this important? Read more about Senna’s abilities on the track here.

Track Profile: What Makes Portimão Special

Built in 2008 with investment exceeding €195 million – including facilities like karting, off-road areas, and a five-star hotel – the circuit was designed as an international motorsport hub.

Drivers and pundits alike praise Portimao Circuit for its challenging combination of braking zones, high-speed bends, and technical character that rewards precision and confidence.

Portugal’s Broader F1 Heritage

• Porto and Monsanto (1950s–1960s), early experiments with street and park circuits.
• Estoril’s long era (1984–1996), where multiple world champions raced and won.
• Portimão’s modern comeback (2020–2021), highlighting the circuit’s ability to host world championship events amid global disruption.

From Lisbon to the Algarve, Portugal has been a meaningful stage for motorsport evolution across generations.

Looking Ahead: What 2027 and 2028 Could Bring

Although the exact dates and weekend scheduling have yet to be confirmed, the return itself is a strong signal of confidence in the circuit’s ability to produce thrilling races and strong fan engagement.

With the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort set to exit the calendar after 2026 and other venues entering rotation or being evaluated, Portimão’s two-year deal represents a pragmatic and exciting addition to Formula 1’s future.

Conclusion

Past winners include legends like Lewis Hamilton, Ayrton Senna, Nigel Mansell, and Alain Prost, and upcoming races are expected to continue that tradition of excellence and excitement.

FAQ: Portimao Circuit and the Portuguese Grand Prix

Who won at Portimo in 2020 and 2021?
Lewis Hamilton won both the 2020 and 2021 Portuguese Grands Prix.

Why is Portimão Circuit returning in 2027?
Formula 1 confirmed a two-year agreement for 2027 and 2028 that reinstates Portimão on the calendar, partly replacing the Dutch Grand Prix and celebrating Portugal’s motorsport heritage.

Has Formula 1 raced at other Portuguese circuits?
Yes – the Portuguese GP was previously hosted at Boavista, Monsanto, and Estoril.