The F1 world has never been short on strong opinions, and this time the noise is coming from Portugal as news that F1 is set to return to Portimao in 2027 and 2028 has already split fans. Some are thrilled to see a familiar name back on the calendar, while others are asking why the sport is going back at all.
Portugal’s Portimao Back on the F1 Map Soon
Portugal is set to welcome F1 again in 2027 and 2028, with the Algarve International Circuit hosting the race, and the formal announcement is expected sometime later today from the country’s Minister of Economy, Manuel Castro Almeida. This follows earlier comments made by the Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, who made it clear this year that bringing F1 back was a government priority.
Portimão first appeared on the F1 calendar during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the sport was forced to rethink its schedule due to the restrictions. The Portuguese Grand Prix debuted in October 2020 with a limited crowd of 27,500 fans. In 2021, the race returned, but with empty grandstands due to health restrictions.
As soon as reports of Portimao’s return surfaced, fans made their feelings clear, and they did not hold back.
Some were openly critical, saying, “its a f*****g awful track, made for MotoGP. it’s literally the exact same as Qatar but not in the middle east so people don’t hate it.”
While another said, “Am Portuguese but awful track. One single overtake point at end of main straight. Boring.”
Another said, “Don’t know how I feel about this track.”
However, some fans were excited to see it come back too: “portimão is a great track, glad to see it back on the calendar.”
One user remarked, “One of my favourite tracks love Portimao.”
Despite the unusual timing, the circuit made an impression and is known for its elevation changes and fast-flowing corners. Drivers often describe it as challenging and physical, a place that punishes even the smallest mistakes.
Portugal’s government sees clear value in bringing the race back under normal conditions, as local reports suggest the state will invest around 27 million euros to secure the event. Officials believe the cost is justified due to the event’s international exposure and a positive economic impact.
“These events involve some financial effort on the part of the government,” Prime Minister Montenegro said earlier this year. “But they have a direct financial return as well as an indirect promotional return that is frankly, worthwhile.”
From F1’s side, Portimao also fits into a growing trend of rotating circuits, and with an expanding calendar, returning venues for short stints have become more common in the sport.
For Portugal, the race is about visibility and growth. For F1, it is another chance to refresh the calendar without committing long-term. For fans, it is another reminder that no circuit will ever please everyone.
