WRC Vodafone Rally de Portugal 2026

The Rally de Portugal, starting internationally in 1967 as the TAP Rally, became a founding WRC event in 1973. Initially mixed surface, it shifted to all-gravel in the 1990s, known for its demanding stages in northern Portugal's forests. Challenges include rough gravel, unpredictable weather, and high-speed sections, earning it multiple "Best Rally" awards. Sponsorships from TAP, Vinho do Porto, and Vodafone have boosted its profile. Dropped briefly in 2002, it returned in 2007 with a northern base. Sébastien Ogier holds the record with seven wins. The event's sustainability efforts, like FIA three-star accreditation since 2017, highlight its modern evolution while preserving its thrilling heritage.