The coronavirus epidemic has disrupted the schedule of many sports competitions. Formula 1 is not to be outdone but should return this year with significant changes. Indeed, some Grands Prix will not be able to take place on the planned circuits and Portugal could benefit from it. After 24 years of absence, F1 could return to Portugal. And not to do things halfway, it would not be one but two Grands Prix that Portugal could host this year. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about the possible return of Formula 1 to Portugal in 2020.
Portugal could host 2 Formula 1 Grand Prix this year
Formula 1 has not laid tires in Portugal for 24 years, except for a few tests, but it could end quickly. Indeed the possibility of having one or even two Formula 1 Grand Prix in Portimão has been confirmed by the FOM (Formula One Management), but for the moment nothing is official.
However, according to local sources, a luxury hotel in Portimão urgently canceled all reservations between September 24th and 27th, and between October 1st and 4th, precisely the days when the newspaper A Bola announced the two races that will take place at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve.
The sports magazine reports a Formula 1 race, with the possibility of a second race the following week. It’s the Portuguese Grand Prix on September 27th and the new Algarve Grand Prix on October 4th.
The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve circuit, located not far from Portimão, would be a huge boost to tourism in Portugal, with the arrival of thousands of fans and team members. The decision is expected to be confirmed shortly by the FIA (International Automobile Federation), which is seeking a solution to replace certain dates outside of Europe, which have been compromised by the coronavirus epidemic.
The 4.6 km circuit, Grade 1 approved by the FIA, was used in three private group test sessions in December 2008 and January 2009, with Ferrari, McLaren, Renault, Williams, Toyota and Toro Rosso. No doubt this news will delight fans of speed and Formula 1.
