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F1 drivers rave about Portimão’s thrilling ‘rollercoaster’ circuit: a daring challenge awaits

Simon Monroy by Simon Monroy
December 17, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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F1 drivers rave about Portimão’s thrilling ‘rollercoaster’ circuit: a daring challenge awaits

LUSAIL CITY, QATAR - NOVEMBER 30: Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing in the Drivers Press Conference during the F1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit on November 30, 2025 in Lusail City, Qatar. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202511300750 // Usage for editorial use only //

“A Thrilling Roller Coaster”: Formula 1 Drivers React to the Portimão Circuit in 2020

In a monumental return to Portugal after a staggering 24-year hiatus, the Formula 1 circuit made a grand entrance at the Algarve International Circuit (AIA) in October 2020. This debut was anything but ordinary, igniting an electrifying response from the F1 paddock that split opinions right down the middle. On one hand, there was a wave of excitement for the circuit’s old-school charm and challenging layout; on the other, drivers voiced concerns over the fresh tarmac that presented dangerously low grip levels.

A Circuit of Thrills and Challenges

The unique topography of the Algarve circuit, characterized by its relentless hills and blind corners, was unanimously praised by drivers who likened the experience to riding a high-speed roller coaster. Lewis Hamilton, who clinched victory that day, described the track as “incredibly difficult” and “physically and mentally demanding.” He emphasized the remarkable undulations and the challenge posed by the blind turns, stating, “There are many places where you can’t see where you’re going. Coming out of Turn 8, you’re looking at the sky for a while with no idea of what’s beyond the crest.”

Pierre Gasly, driving for AlphaTauri at the time, was particularly vocal about the visceral sensations evoked by the track. “The first laps gave me that stomach-churning feeling you get on a roller coaster! After Turn 8, with all the ups and downs… I’ve never felt that in a Formula 1 car,” he enthused.

Charles Leclerc of Ferrari declared the circuit “astonishing,” admitting that it took several laps to find his rhythm due to the lack of visual references at the apexes. However, once he mastered the layout, he said the feeling was “very good.”

Lando Norris from McLaren extolled the “pure” nature of the circuit, asserting that it serves as a true test of bravery and skill, standing in stark contrast to the flat, sterile designs of modern tracks.

The Asphalt: A Treacherous Ice Rink

However, not all was smooth sailing. The circuit had been resurfaced just weeks before the event, and the new asphalt was still releasing oils, coupled with the mild October temperatures and harder tires from Pirelli. This concoction created a treacherous grip situation that caught many drivers off guard.

Max Verstappen of Red Bull, while appreciating the circuit layout itself, was critical of the grip levels, describing his driving experience as “not very pleasant” due to the unpredictable nature of the new surface. He noted that the lack of grip led to a series of mistakes and constant corrections.

Carlos Sainz, also from McLaren, took a different approach. Embracing the slippery conditions reminiscent of rallying—an influence from his father—he expressed comfort in low-grip scenarios, stating it was “in his nature” to find grip where none seemed to exist, relishing the extra challenge it brought.

Sebastian Vettel, then with Ferrari and now retired, remarked on the exceptionally smooth asphalt, which led to slipping but appreciated the technical challenge it posed, forcing drivers to be fully alert and engaged.

Final Thoughts

The consensus among drivers was clear: Portimão is a true driver’s circuit, where courage and technical skill reign supreme. Despite the slippery asphalt, often likened to driving on ice, the Formula 1 community—encompassing drivers, teams, and journalists alike—celebrated the track as a spectacular addition to the calendar. Its unique character starkly contrasts the modern, computer-designed circuits, solidifying Portimão’s status as a thrilling gem in the world of motorsport.

Tags: 1958-formula-1-season2025-mclaren-f1-championshipaf-corse-ferrariAlphaTauriCharles LeclercLewis HamiltonPierre Gasly
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