After a fun-filled Eifel Grand Prix in Germany, Formula One returns to Portugal for the first time since 1996 at a new circuit in the Algarve International Circuit with Mercedes’s Lewis Hamilton set for a record 92nd victory if he wins around Portimao.
Hamilton enters this round with a 69 point lead over Valtteri Bottas in the drivers’ standings as he looks to move closer to a seventh title with a maximum of 156 points on offer across the final six rounds.
Mercedes meanwhile are on course for a seventh constructors title with a 180 point advantage over Red Bull whilst Racing Point now leads McLaren and Renault in a three-way battle for third with six points separating those three teams.
Now, here is a full guide to everything which you need to know ahead of 2020 Portuguese Grand Prix from timings to track pointers.
Track Guide
Circuit: Algarve International Circuit
Laps: 66
Race Distance: 306.826km
Tyre Compounds: C1, C2 & C3
Schedule
| Date | Session | UK Time* |
| Friday 23 October | FP1 | 11:00am |
| Friday 23 October | FP2 | 3:00pm |
| Saturday 24 October | FP3 | 11:00am |
| Saturday 24 October | Qualifying | 2:00pm |
| Sunday 25 October* | Race | 1:10pm |
*Friday 23 and Saturday 24 October sessions are to BST time but clocks go back at 2am on Sunday 25 October, so race time is in GMT time.
Five Key Points
- With several elevation changes, traction will be key to nailing a strong lap time, especially out of the final corner which requires finding top speed quickly to take onto the main straight particularly under threat of DRS from the driver behind.
- Drivers when defending position will need to be wary of their braking into Turns 5, 8 and 10 because running wide at those corners could cost them vital points if aren’t careful.
- Mercedes should be the team to beat given their track record at new and returning tracks in the hybrid era but Renault do boast an all-rounder car which should be well suited to the twisty nature of this circuit.
- Although the Ferrari powered teams of Alfa Romeo, Ferrari and Haas are expected to still feel a power deficit on the main straight, the lack of straights elsewhere on the circuit should reduce their overall deficit if can nail the technical aspects of the track.
- A good start could be key with no proper hard braking zone until Turn Three which will mean drivers jostling for position through the fast sweeping turns one and two before rapidly needing to brake upon entry to Turn Three.
Race Recaps
If missed any of the eleven previous rounds of the 2020 season, please click on the links below to catch up on the missed action.