Portugal’s Estoril circuit targets MotoGP 2027 and F1 2028 comeback. The historic Estoril circuit in Portugal aims for a MotoGP return in 2027.

Estoril seeks new life: aiming for MotoGP in 2027 and F1 in 2028

The historic Estoril circuit in Portugal, which last hosted Formula 1 in 1996, could soon return to the forefront of both the F1 and MotoGP calendars.

The return of Portugal?

Portugal is showing renewed enthusiasm for motorsport. During 2020 and 2021, the Portimão circuit became a crucial venue for both F1 and MotoGP, helping the championships survive the challenging pandemic seasons. However, soon after, the Algarve track was removed from both series’ calendars. In the coming years, the situation could change for the Lusitanian country, with a welcome return on the horizon.

The Estoril circuit is positioning itself to host both F1 and MotoGP once again. Portugal News reported that the Cascais municipality intends to take control of the track by acquiring Parpública – the state holding company acting as Portugal’s national asset fund – which manages government stakes in various companies.

Goals for 2027-2028

“By 2026, thirty years will have passed since the last Formula 1 Grand Prix at Estoril,” stated Nuno Piteira Lopes, Vice President of the Cascais Municipal Council. “At that time, we will start a new era for this legendary circuit, with the municipality taking over management of the facility.”

The ambition is clear, with Cascais aiming to host a MotoGP World Championship race in 2027 and bring Formula 1 back to Portugal starting in 2028. The municipality has also expressed “full willingness to make the necessary improvements to the facility, together with private partners.”

This is not the first time the Cascais Municipal Council has attempted to acquire Estoril from the state. In 2015, the council pursued a purchase program valued at approximately five million euros, but the deal was rejected by the Court of Auditors at that time.