Portimão, Algarve’s roller-coaster locks in its premier-class future following 2025 record crowds.
As MotoGP approaches the final stretch of the 2026 season, the championship has confirmed a contract extension with the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, securing the Portuguese Grand Prix through 2029.
MotoGP returned to Portugal with Portimão in 2020 following an eight-year hiatus after Estoril’s 12-year run on the calendar from 2000 to 2012.
“The return of the Portuguese Grand Prix at the Algarve International Circuit brought a new dimension to the championship from the moment it joined the calendar,” Carlos Ezpeleta, Deputy CEO of MotoGP, said. “Its demanding layout has produced some unforgettable racing and quickly made it a favourite among riders and fans alike.
“We are excited to continue building on that momentum, growing the event into an even bigger celebration of MotoGP and delivering unforgettable experiences for fans across Portugal.”
Following a record-breaking weekend that drew 166,000 spectators in 2025, the venue is set to host Round 21 of the 2026 campaign.
“Securing the MotoGP in the Algarve until 2029 is excellent news for the region. It is an event with enormous international visibility, which attracts thousands of visitors, generates business and boosts the destination’s profile,” André Gomes, President of Algarve Tourism, insisted.
“It also has the advantage of taking place outside the peak season, at a time when we want to continue to grow. That is precisely this sort of major event that helps the Algarve to establish itself as a year-round destination and consolidate its position amongst the leading international tourist destinations.”
On track, Fabio Quartararo (2021, 2022) and Francesco Bagnaia (2021, 2023) share the honours with two premier class wins each at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve. Meanwhile, Marc Márquez remains winless at the venue, one of only three tracks, alongside Mandalika and Goiânia, to elude the nonuple world champion. While Ducati leads the manufacturer tally with three Portuguese Grand Prix victories, last year’s edition famously launched Marco Bezzecchi’s stellar run of five consecutive wins spanning from Portimão to Austin.
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