Formula 1 set for venue return as Dutch Grand Prix drops off

December 17, 2025 Oliver Obel

Formula 1 has confirmed that Portugal will rejoin the championship calendar in 2027 and 2028, marking the sport’s return to a circuit that played a key role during the disrupted Covid-19 seasons.

The Algarve International Circuit near Portimao will host the races, bringing Formula 1 back to southern Portugal for the first time since 2021. The venue staged two grands prix in 2020 and 2021 after emergency calendar changes caused by the pandemic.

Dutch Grand Prix replaced

Portugal’s return comes as part of wider calendar adjustments. The Portuguese Grand Prix will replace the Dutch Grand Prix, with Zandvoort scheduled to host Formula 1 for the final time next year before dropping off the schedule.

Formula 1 has increasingly rotated European events as demand to host races grows globally, forcing the championship to balance historic venues with commercial expansion and logistical constraints.

A circuit praised by drivers

Portimao is a 2.89-mile circuit laid out across rolling terrain, featuring significant elevation changes and fast, sweeping corners. Drivers have consistently praised the track for its technical difficulty and flowing nature, which set it apart from many modern Formula 1 venues.

Despite its popularity on track, the circuit’s rural location north of Portugal’s southern coast has drawn criticism in the past, particularly around transport and access during large events.

Domenicali welcomes decision

Formula 1 president and chief executive Stefano Domenicali said the circuit’s return reflected both sporting quality and fan enthusiasm.

“I'm delighted to see Portimao return to the Formula 1 calendar and for the sport to continue to ignite the passion of our incredible Portuguese fanbase,” Domenicali said.

“The circuit delivers on-track excitement from the first corner to the chequered 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.”

Pandemic races left lasting mark

The two previous Portuguese Grands Prix were both won by Lewis Hamilton while driving for Mercedes. His victory in 2020 was particularly significant, as it took him past Michael Schumacher’s long-standing record of 91 Formula 1 race wins.

Although Portugal’s earlier appearances were intended as temporary solutions during the pandemic, those races helped establish Portimao as a credible long-term option on the calendar.

With its return now secured for 2027 and 2028, Portugal will once again become part of Formula 1’s evolving European presence as the championship looks ahead to the next decade.

Sources: Formula 1, championship officials