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Portugal’s F1 Comeback: Can Iconic Tracks Like Estoril Reclaim Their Throne?

Harry Bright by Harry Bright
August 18, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
Portugal’s F1 Comeback: Can Iconic Tracks Like Estoril Reclaim Their Throne?

Is Portugal About to Reclaim Its Throne in Formula 1? The Race for a Coveted Calendar Spot Heats Up!

In an electrifying turn of events, Portugal is revving its engines to reclaim its place on the illustrious Formula 1 calendar, and the stakes have never been higher! With a staggering 24 races now on the schedule, the competition to secure a slot is fiercer than ever. Can Portugal pull off this ambitious comeback? The clock is ticking!

The Algarve International Circuit, known for its spectacular layout and thrilling races, is in the spotlight after showcasing its capabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic when it stepped in to host Grands Prix in 2020 and 2021. While the nation’s recent efforts to keep the F1 flame alive have been commendable, the choppy waters of modern-day motorsport politics present a formidable challenge. With Madrid set to host the Spanish Grand Prix, Portugal must prove it deserves a slice of this lucrative pie.

Let’s not forget the rich tapestry of Formula 1 history woven into Portugal’s past! The Estoril circuit, which debuted in 1984, was the battleground for some of the most dramatic moments in racing history. Who can forget the legendary showdown between McLaren’s Alain Prost and Niki Lauda? Prost, eager to capture his first title, found himself in a nail-biting intra-team battle with Lauda, who, against all odds, clinched his third championship despite starting in 11th. This is just a taste of the unforgettable drama that unfolded on Portuguese soil!

Estoril was also the stage where Ayrton Senna claimed his very first victory, famously celebrating by unstrapping himself from his Lotus and waving to the crowd—a moment forever etched in the annals of racing lore. The track has seen its fair share of heart-stopping incidents, including a black-flagged Nigel Mansell colliding with Senna in 1989, which swung the championship in Prost’s favor. And who could forget the gripping battle between Prost and Michael Schumacher in 1993, as they fought tooth and nail for glory?

Despite its historic significance, Estoril’s lack of modern facilities led to its removal from the calendar in 1997, leaving fans heartbroken. However, the emergence of the Portimao circuit has breathed new life into Portugal’s racing aspirations. The track quickly became a fan favorite during its debut F1 race in the pandemic-affected 2020 season, where the unpredictable weather added an extra layer of excitement. Carlos Sainz stunned everyone by taking an early lead, only to see Lewis Hamilton claim victory in his iconic all-black Mercedes, marking his 92nd career win—surpassing Michael Schumacher’s long-standing record.

Fast forward to today, and the Portuguese government is on a mission to bring F1 back to its shores. But with so many countries vying for a spot on the calendar, how will Portimao secure its future? The rotation system introduced by F1’s bosses is a glimmer of hope. Already, Spa-Francorchamps has secured its place on the calendar until 2031, paving the way for other circuits to follow suit.

As F1 adapts to a more global strategy, the door is wide open for iconic tracks like Portimao and Imola to make a triumphant return. With the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya also set to host races, it remains to be seen how many European venues can coexist in this evolving landscape.

Rest assured, Portugal’s presence on the F1 calendar—whether on a bi-annual basis or more frequently—would be a boon for both fans and the sport alike. The excitement is palpable as all eyes turn to the future of F1 and the potential resurgence of one of its most storied venues. Will Portugal’s grand return be on the horizon? Only time will tell!

Tags: 1994-formula-1-seasonalain-prost-enarrow-mclarenjamarr-chases-mercedes-maybachLewis Hamiltonniki-lauda
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