The World Rally Championship (WRC) has just sealed a groundbreaking deal that will keep the adrenaline-pumping races in Portugal until at least 2028! This new multi-year contract ensures that Rally Portugal, a staple in the WRC calendar since 1973, will continue to thrill fans for the next three years.
Celebrations are in order as ACP President Carlos Barbosa expressed his excitement, stating, “This is very good news for the organisation and for all the mayors who trust us to bring this fantastic rally to the interior of the country, for the fans and for the economy.”
WRC event director Simon Larkin also chimed in, highlighting the significance of Portugal’s round in the championship. The recent edition of Rally Portugal attracted over 500,000 fans, solidifying its reputation as one of the most supported events on the WRC calendar.
However, not all is smooth sailing as drivers raised concerns about the grueling three-day itinerary of the rally. This feedback may prompt organizers to make adjustments for the upcoming year to ensure a fair and challenging competition for all participants.
In addition to the Portugal deal, the WRC is also in the process of finalizing next year’s calendar, with Croatia set to rejoin the championship after a stint in the European Rally Championship. Excitingly, there are talks of a potential return to the USA, marking the first time since 1988 that the WRC could make a thrilling comeback to American soil.
As the WRC gears up for more heart-stopping action in the coming years, fans can expect nail-biting races, fierce competition, and the unrivaled thrill of witnessing the world’s best drivers tackle challenging terrains across the globe. Stay tuned as the world of rally racing continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of motorsport excellence.