HISTORY OF THE CIRCUIT

Also known as the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, this world-class racing venue is located near Portimão, in Portugal’s sunny Algarve region. Since opening in 2008, it has become one of Europe’s most respected modern circuits, admired for its technical layout, dramatic elevation changes, and excellent spectator facilities.

Construction

Built in an impressive seven months, the circuit officially opened its doors in 2008 as part of a wider motorsport complex that includes a karting track, technology park, hotel, and apartments. Its 4.653 km layout features 16 corners and sweeping elevation changes that test both drivers and engineers. The circuit’s fast, flowing nature quickly caught the attention of international racing organisers.

Design and features

The track’s design draws inspiration from legendary circuits such as Spa-Francorchamps and the Nürburgring, incorporating blind crests, off-camber corners, and steep climbs and drops. Drivers often compare it to a “roller coaster” due to its constantly changing gradients. The mix of high-speed sections and slower technical corners makes it ideal for overtaking, testing car balance, and providing thrilling racing.

For fans, the circuit offers excellent visibility from the grandstands and natural banks, while teams value its modern pit and paddock facilities, which meet the strictest FIA and FIM standards.

Major events

Since its opening, the Algarve International Circuit has hosted a wide variety of prestigious events, including MotoGP, World Superbike, European Le Mans Series, FIA GT, WTCC, GP2 and A1GP. Its FIA Grade 1 licence means it meets all the requirements for hosting Formula 1 races, putting it among the elite global circuits.

The venue became a key player in world motorsport when it hosted the Formula 1 Portuguese Grand Prix in 2020 and 2021, stepping in as part of the pandemic-adjusted calendar. Both races showcased the circuit’s ability to produce exciting, unpredictable racing, with elevation changes and blind corners challenging even the world’s best drivers.

In 2020, Lewis Hamilton dominated the race to secure his 92nd career victory, surpassing Michael Schumacher’s long-standing record for most F1 wins. The following year saw Max Verstappen and Hamilton battle fiercely again, confirming Portimão’s status as a driver’s circuit that rewards precision and bravery.

MotoGP at Algarve International Circuit

MotoGP made its debut at the Algarve International Circuit in 2020, stepping in to host the Portuguese Grand Prix during a disrupted season. The event was a resounding success, earning praise from riders and fans alike. Its fast and technical nature – with a mix of blind corners, elevation changes, and tricky braking zones – instantly made it a fan favourite on the calendar.

The Algarve round has since become a regular fixture, often opening or closing the MotoGP season. Riders such as Miguel Oliveira, Portugal’s own MotoGP star, have celebrated emotional victory here in front of passionate home crowds, underlining the circuit’s growing importance within the championship.