Portimao close to joining 2020 F1 calendar

The Algarve circuit in Portugal is reportedly set to be confirmed as the latest new track to host a race on the 2020 Formula 1 calendar.

According to several reports in Portuguese media and now international outlets, and suggested by our own correspondent Jorge Girao, the Portimao track is on the brink of agreeing to a deal that will see if host the first Portuguese Grand Prix since 1996.

Formula 1 is yet to formally announce a full calendar for the 2020 season as it continues to manage the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Talks have been ongoing since last month, with the circuit being awarded an FIA Grade 1 license earlier this year which allows them to be eligible to host a Grand Prix.

Alongside Mugello in Tuscany, the Algarve circuit will be the second track to join the calendar that has never hosted a world championship Formula 1 race before.

In terms of dates, the race is expected to follow the Russian Grand Prix, which is currently scheduled for September 27.

The announcement of the Algarve race will take Formula 1 up to 11 confirmed rounds, with plans still in place to hold additional races in Vietnam, Bahrain and Abu Dhabi.

The status of the Americas leg of the calendar remains unknown, with the Covid-19 situation remaining severe in the USA and Brazil.

Imola and Hockenheim are still understood to be on standby if the sport needs to add rounds at short notice.