Portuguese island rallies see strong performances in Madeira and the Azores

The Calheta Rally in Madeira hosted the three top qualifiers from the Portuguese Rally Championship as a preparation event for the upcoming Rali da Madeira. José Pedro Fontes debuted the Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale, finishing fourth overall after a fast pace on the demanding asphalt. Pedro Almeida placed seventh in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2, while Rúben Rodrigues posted the quickest times but retired after a puncture and a later mechanical failure.

On Graciosa Island, Luís Miguel Rego and co‑driver José Janela dominated the XVI Rali da Graciosa in a Skoda Fabia RS Rally2, winning with a total time of 36:40.4 and extending his lead in the Campeonato dos Açores de Ralis. Gustavo Silva secured second place, overtaking Cláudio Bettencourt, who had led much of the two‑wheel‑drive classification. The rally also saw the abandonment of the duo Fernando Soares and Alberto Almeida after an incident on the second half of the stage.