Video: An onboard lap of the bonkers Portimao circuit

23rd October 2020

Laura Thomson

Formula 1 will this weekend make its Portimao debut, with the field facing a high-speed circuit, comprising plenty of fast corners and elevation changes. And while we’ve no doubt that the 21 drivers have been doing their homework, we thought we ought to do some of our own.

In the recent online archives, we came across this epic onboard around the Algarve International Circuit, an incredible ride upon an A1 Team Brazil GP car, piloted by Felipe Guimarães. Brazillian Guimarães competed in the A1GP class back in 2008-2009, after graduating from karting through a series of lower formulas.

In his distinct silver and fluorescent car, the then-18-year-old winds around the 2.9-mile circuit, as the commentators analyse his racing line. Reaching speeds approaching 170mph (270km/h according to the on-screen odometer), the talented driver sets the fastest lap of the race at 1 minute 32.4 seconds, ahead of both America and Great Britain. Eventually he placed a respectable seventh, his joint-second best result of the season. Holy moly, are we exited to see modern F1 cars at Portimao!

Welcome to Goodwood Elevenses, a mid-morning helping of motoring-related amusement to help break up your day. Watch the last video: Listen to the ear‑pounding growl of a 289 Cobra