F1 confirms Portimao's return to replace Zandvoort on 2027 calendar

The Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimao, Portugal, will rejoin the Formula 1 calendar for the 2027 and 2028 seasons, taking the slot vacated by the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. The move marks a strategic shift in the European leg of the championship and brings back a circuit that proved popular during its two-race stint in the pandemic-affected 2020 and 2021 seasons.

Why it matters:

The calendar change reflects the intense competition to host F1 races and the sport's strategic balancing act between historic venues and new markets. Zandvoort's exit after a successful six-year run, driven by local promoter challenges, opens a door for Portimao's return, signaling that F1 is willing to rotate European circuits based on commercial viability and fan demand, rather than locking in permanent deals.

The details:

• The Algarve circuit will host the Portuguese Grand Prix in 2027 and 2028, filling the gap left by Zandvoort, which will host its final race in 2026.
• Portimao has existing F1 experience, having hosted two races won by Lewis Hamilton for Mercedes in 2020 and 2021.
• The deal extends Portugal's long history with F1. The Portuguese GP will be its 19th and 20th editions, with 13 previous races held at Estoril from 1984 to 1996.
• F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali highlighted the circuit's exciting layout and strong Portuguese fanbase as key factors in the decision.
• Circuit CEO Jaime Costa emphasized the economic and tourism boost for the Algarve region and praised the support of the Portuguese government in securing the deal.

What's next:

The focus now shifts to the final chapter of the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort in 2026 and the preparations for Portimao's return. For fans, the change adds a beloved, challenging 'rollercoaster' circuit back into the mix, promising a different kind of racing spectacle. The move also keeps the door open for future calendar rotations as F1 continues to manage a record-breaking schedule with high demand from venues worldwide.