The Vodafone Rally de Portugal 2026 once again establishes itself as one of the most iconic rounds of the FIA World Rally Championship, not only for the on-stage excitement but also for the impressive figures that reflect its scale and significance.
This year’s edition features with 23 special stages, totalling 344.91 competitive kilometres, within an overall route of 1,874.58 kilometres. Among the stages, the shortest is the Figueira da Foz super special at just 1.93 kilometres, while Amarante stands as the longest and most demanding at 26.24 kilometres.
From a sport perspective, the competition remains finely balanced. Elfyn Evans and Thierry Neuville, each have one victory in Portugal, while record-holder Sébastien Ogier boasts seven wins in the event. Among local drivers, Armindo Araújo remains the standout name, with three victories in the Rally of Portugal.
Diversity is also a defining feature of the entry list, with competitors from 22 nationalities. French crews make up 18% with 24 participants, while Spanish drivers and co-drivers account for 10% (14 participants). Portugal is strongly represented, with 28 drivers and co-drivers, representing 21% of the total entry.
Adding a generational storyline to the event, two sons of former WRC stars – Pablo Sarrazin and Eliott Delecour – are competing this year, both co-driven by the Roche brothers, Yannick and Romain, underlining the family legacy within the sport.
On the technical side, the Rally2 category includes six different manufacturers, while historically eight manufacturers have claimed victory in Portugal, including Toyota, Hyundai, Ford and Peugeot.
The scale of the organisation is equally remarkable: 450 marshals, more than 800 volunteers, and over 3,000 GNR personnel ensure the event runs smoothly and safely. In addition, several people are dedicated to logistics, stages set-up and safety.
These figures confirm that the Vodafone Rally de Portugal is far more than a rally – it is a world-class sport spectacle.