Rally Portugal is gearing up for a breathtaking display of motorsport prowess as it prepares to host the fifth leg of the World Rally Championship (WRC) from May 15-18. This year’s event promises to be monumental, featuring the most formidable aggregation of Rally1 cars since 2022. With twelve teams navigating a challenging array of 24 gravel stages, fans are poised for an adrenaline-fueled experience that could redefine the championship landscape.
The Toyota team is notably a force to be reckoned with this season. Spearheaded by the legendary Sébastien Ogier—whose record of six wins in Portugal underscores his prowess—the team is fielding five GR Yaris Rally1 cars. Ogier, returning for his third race in a limited calendar, aims to defend his title from last year. Added to his experience and skill are full-time drivers Elfyn Evans, Kalle Rovanpera, Takamoto Katsuta, and Sami Pajari—all players with their eyes fixed firmly on victory. The introduction of a sleek new silver paint scheme adds an aesthetic edge to Toyota’s competitive spirit, marking a significant visual shift from their traditional black livery as they prepare for the summer.
Hyundai and M-Sport: Challengers to Beat
Hyundai is also bringing a strong lineup with its three i20 N Rally cars, piloted by top-tier drivers Thierry Neuville, Ott Tanak, and Adrien Fourmaux. This trio, with their own accolades and sheer determination, aims to unsettle Toyota’s dominance. The competition is bound to be fierce as they clash on Portugal’s iconic stages, each driver motivated not just by personal glory but by national pride and manufacturer superiority.
In addition, M-Sport-Ford is set to showcase four Puma models, including the return of Martins Sesks, who joins fellow competitors Gregoire Munster and Josh McErlean. Adding an interesting twist is the participation of 55-year-old local hero Diogo Salvi, racing in a privateer capacity. This infusion of seasoned talent enriches the event, bringing a nostalgic charm that resonates deeply with aficionados.
WRC2 Raffle Adds Intrigue
But the excitement isn’t limited to the Rally1 category alone. A staggering 45 entries in the WRC2 class electrify the atmosphere. Notable figures like Kris Meeke and Dani Sordo—both seasoned WRC winners—will contest the Portuguese national championship concurrently. Meeke, steering a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2, has demonstrated his competitive edge by triumphing over Sordo in recent rounds, and fans can expect a thrilling rematch on the gravel.
High-profile contenders in the WRC2 class include Oliver Solberg and current points leader Yohan Rossel, both poised for breakout performances. Rounding out the entries are formidable drivers like Gus Greensmith and Nikolay Gryazin, all eager to seize this opportunity for glory.
Preparation and Anticipation
With preparations underway, both Toyota and M-Sport have already commenced pre-event testing sessions, fine-tuning their strategies to tackle Portugal’s demanding conditions. As the countdown to the rally begins, the fervor among teams and fans alike is palpable. Rally Portugal is not only a stage for vibrant competition but also a celebration of heritage, skill, and the relentless pursuit of greatness—a true testament to the spirit of rallying. This electrifying event is set to etch memorable moments in the history of motorsport, enthralling enthusiasts worldwide.