A major surprise has hit the WRC world: Rally Portugal, one of the sport's classic events, has been dropped from the 2027 calendar. The decision came from WRC Promoter after the rally had initially been scheduled for May 13–16, but last-minute changes forced Portugal out.
The move is part of a broader push to make the WRC calendar more geographically diverse and truly intercontinental. In other words, the promoter is aiming to spread events across the globe, even if it means sacrificing long-standing traditional rallies.
But all is not lost. The Portuguese motorsport federation, Automovel Club de Portugal, along with WRC Promoter, have already held initial talks about bringing Rally Portugal back in 2028. Negotiations are at an early stage, but at least there's hope for fans in the region.
Earlier this year, Rallit.fi reported that Rally Portugal was set for a major change next year. The event's base was to move from Matosinhos, near Porto, to Viseu, about a 90-minute drive to the southeast. That change was in preparation, but now it must be postponed due to the calendar uncertainty.
Viseu mayor Joao Azevedo confirmed the plan at a city council meeting. He stated that Viseu would not merely host a single special stage, but serve as the operational centre for the entire event. "We will not merely host a single special stage, but serve as the operational centre for the entire event. Service, certification, rescue services, officials, mechanics, manufacturers and cars – all the logistics required to stage Rally Portugal will be handled and managed from Viseu," Azevedo said.
This decision has certainly surprised many, given that Portugal has always been a favourite among WRC fans. Its challenging stages and passionate atmosphere are a big draw. However, WRC Promoter's new direction seems to prioritise global expansion, even at the cost of tradition.
For fans, Portugal's absence in 2027 will feel strange. But with talks for 2028 already underway, there is still hope. We'll have to wait and see if Rally Portugal can truly make a comeback, or if it will fade further amid the relentless calendar changes.
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