Miguel Nunes Wins 2026 Rali da Madeira, Boosting Regional Economy

Portuguese driver Miguel Nunes claimed his second victory at the 2026 Rali da Madeira, finishing ahead of João Silva and Armindo Araújo. Nunes managed the rally from start to finish in a Skoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, extending his lead to over 30 seconds in the final stages. The event, part of the FIA European Rally Trophy and the Portuguese Rally Championship, attracted thousands of spectators and involved about two thousand staff members.

Regional authorities highlighted the rally's extraordinary economic impact. Secretary of Economy José Manuel Rodrigues said the three‑day competition generated significant activity for local industry, commerce, hotels and tourism, describing it as the biggest sporting celebration in Madeira in years. Club Sports da Madeira president Paulo Fontes echoed the positive assessment, noting high public attendance.

A post‑race dispute arose when João Silva denied accusations by Nunes that his team’s supporters had thrown objects at Nunes’s car, calling the claims unfounded and emphasizing sportsmanship.