Director Algarve International Circuit: "We have a Grand Prix thanks to Corona"

During the weekend of 23rd to 25th October, Formula 1 will take place at the Algarve International Circuit and the enthusiasm for the Portuguese Grand Prix is enourmous, as can be seen from the speed with which the tickets for the event have sold.

The normal capacity of the circuit is around 90,000, but due to measures surrounding the coronavirus, it has been agreed with the government that a maximum of 45,000 people per day may come to the circuit. More than 30,000 tickets were sold in the first week. Miguel Praia, commercial director of the circuit, understands that spirit. "Formula 1 is so popular in Portugal and fans are eager to attend the event when F1 returns to our country," he told Autosport.com.

What also contributes to the popularity of the Grand Prix is that it will probably remain a one-off event. "We know this is a one-off opportunity, but we will do our best to make it a very special event for the teams, sponsors, organisers and fans to enjoy our facilities and the Algarve," he said.

The circuit tried to get Formula 1 to the Algarve before, in vain. "To be honest, the fee charged for welcoming F1 was a showstopper for us," said Praia. And then came the coronavirus. "However, that has changed the world now and therefore both Formula 1 and Dorna Sports [MotoGP] were now interested in visiting the Algarve."