The History of F1 in Portugal

Motorsport fans, start your engines. Formula 1 is returning to Portugal, with the Portuguese Grand Prix set to take place at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve (Algarve International Circuit) near Portimão in 2027 and 2028.

Under a two-year agreement, the track will serve as the battleground for Round 9 in the 2027 season, following the departure of the Dutch Grand Prix at the end of 2026.

After several years away, the world’s biggest racing championship is heading back to the Algarve, bringing all the speed, excitement and drama that makes the crowd go absolutely wild.

It’s hard not to see why the Algarve is such a perfect choice for F1. Portugal has a real passion for racing, and with endless sunshine, dramatic cliffsides, golden beaches and rolling hills, this idyllic setting definitely gives Monaco and Miami a run for their money.

But how did this adrenaline-fuelled sport get its start in Portugal? Let’s hit the grid to explore the history of F1 in Portugal and why its return to the Algarve is so important.

When Was the First F1 Race in Portugal?

Portugal’s connection with Formula 1 first started in 1958, when it hosted its first official World Championship Grand Prix at the Circuito da Boavista. As a pretty aggressive street track, it was well known among fans for its chaotic surface, tight corners, and claustrophobic lines.

British driver Stirling Moss won the very first Portuguese F1 Grand Prix, racing for Vanwall. The race returned in 1959, this time at the Monsanto Circuit in Lisbon. Set within the Monsanto Forest Park, drivers had to contend with significant hazards, including trees, telegraph poles and even tramlines. It returned once again to the Boavista circuit for the 1960 season.

However, as the sport matured, drivers and race officials became increasingly concerned with track safety, especially on temporary tracks like Boavista and Monsanto. As a result, Portugal was removed from the racing schedule until a safer track could be built.

1984-1996: Move to the Autódromo do Estoril

After more than 20 years away, F1 racing returned to Portugal in 1984, finding a new home at the Estoril Circuit located on the outskirts of Lisbon. This kickstarted a completely new chapter for Portuguese motorsport, with Estoril becoming the heart of racing in the country for the next 13 seasons.

This period saw some of the biggest names in racing taking to the track, including the likes of Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell and Michael Schumacher. One of the track’s standout moments came in 1985, when a young Ayrton Senna claimed his first-ever Formula 1 victory in incredibly wet and challenging conditions.

And in 1989, Nigel Mansell caused controversy after he was disqualified for a pit stop error, but continued to race. He eventually collided with Ayrton Senna, forcing both racers to retire, and the incident became one of the most dramatic scenes of Portuguese Grand Prix history.

Unfortunately, history would also soon repeat itself. Safety standards around the sport continued to develop, introducing new and essential features designed to keep drivers, crews, marshals and racing fans safe.

To remain eligible, the Estoril circuit required several important safety improvements to meet these evolving standards. This included expanding run-off areas, improving safety barriers around corners and redesigning the pit lane and exit so cars could pit and rejoin a race safely.

Unfortunately, the privately held Estoril track failed to implement the necessary safety improvements, and the Portuguese Grand Prix was ultimately removed from the F1 race schedule. 1996 was the last F1 race in Portugal for more than 24 years. It would make its return – but under very unusual circumstances.

When Did F1 Last Race in Portugal?

Portugal returned in 2020 after the regular season was severely disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to strict travel restrictions, most of the original race schedule was cancelled or postponed, forcing management to find new tracks to fill the gaps.

The Algarve International Circuit (AIC) was selected as the official track for Round 12 of the season. Stretching for 4.6 kilometres, the AIC’s undulating layout, blind corners and challenging braking points made it an exciting choice for a season already under pressure.

And it certainly didn’t disappoint! After Carlos Sainz took the lead in the opening laps, Lewis Hamilton took the chequered flag to claim his 92nd win, breaking the record held by Michael Schumacher for most Grand Prix victories. This historic win in challenging circumstances was a huge moment for international motorsports and firmly put Portugal back on the map for F1.

The Grand Prix returned in 2021, with Hamilton once again securing the top podium over rivals Max Verstappen and Valtteri Bottas. Although Portugal was not included as a race destination after the 2021 season, management did begin to expand the racing roster in the following years.

This massive boost in demand for new destinations, plus the AIC’s exposure during lockdown, made it an incredibly popular choice. So when the race calendar changed, it was no surprise that the Algarve was at the top of the list.

Portugal F1 2027: What Fans Can Expect from the Return of the Grand Prix

In December 2024, the owners of Circuit Zandvoort decided not to renew their F1 contract beyond the 2026 season, pushing management to find a new replacement for the 2027 race calendar.

It was great news for race fans who wanted to return to beautiful vistas of the Algarve. Offering an exciting rollercoaster circuit, the Portuguese Grand Prix was understandably a top contender. After securing government support, Portugal was officially selected to host the 2027 and 2028 seasons.

It’s incredibly exciting news for F1 fans, who are already gearing up for next year and for good reason. Officials have already announced that the Algarve International Circuit will host Round 9 on June 18th–20th, 2027.

So, whether you’re a lifelong motorsports fan who wants to be trackside or just a travel fan just discovering Formula 1 for the first time, 2027 is shaping up to be an incredibly exciting year to explore this beautiful part of Portugal.

Looking for the Perfect Villa for the F1 Portugal Grand Prix?

After the chequered flag drops, there’s nothing better than relaxing after a day of thrilling race action. Why not make your trip feel truly unforgettable with a stay in your own private luxury villa? Spend your evenings cooling off in a private pool, enjoy a wonderful meal prepared by a local chef, or watch a stunning sunset from your own quiet terrace.

If you’re looking to book an exclusive villa for your Formula 1 holiday in the Algarve, our team at The Real Algarve is on hand to help you choose the perfect luxury stay for your high-octane getaway. Contact us today, and we’ll handle the details – just give us the green light.