Madeira Rally 2026 launches safety chicanes and unveils race schedule

The 77th edition of the Madeira Rally (Rali da Madeira) begins on Thursday with 86 entrants across Rally2, RGT and Rally4 classes. British driver Kris Meeke tops the entry list in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2, while four‑time champion Giandomenico Basso, two‑time winner Diego Ruiloba and a host of Portuguese competitors such as Armindo Araújo and Miguel Nunes also return. Cars on the grid include Skoda Fabia Rally2, Citroën C3 Rally2, Hyundai i20N Rally2, Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale and Porsche and Alpine models in the RGT category.

For the 2026 event officials have added speed‑reduction chicanes at the end of every Special Stage Classification (PEC). Positioned about 100 m before the STOP control, each roughly 20‑metre chicane uses three lines of tyres to force a S‑shaped slowdown, improving safety for officials, media and spectators. Rally director Filipe Sousa explained the measure reduces the risk of high brake temperatures and mechanical failures near the control zone. Spectators are asked to stay clear of the chicane area and watch from designated safe zones.