Portuguese Olympic Committee addresses national title rules and 2027 Mediterranean Beach Games

The Portuguese Olympic Committee (COP) is addressing the debate regarding whether national championship titles should be awarded to foreign athletes. Fernando Gomes, president of the COP, stated that any changes to this matter should be discussed within the ongoing consultation process for amending the Legal Regimes of Sports Federations (RJFD).

The debate has gained momentum following a decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) regarding the 2025 Portuguese Rally Championship. The court ruled that the title should be awarded to the highest-ranking Portuguese athlete, Armindo Araújo, rather than the Spanish driver Dani Sordo. This decision marks a shift from the previous year, when the title was awarded to the driver with the most points regardless of nationality.

Separately, preparations are underway for the 2027 Mediterranean Beach Games, to be held in Portimão and Lagoa. Organizers expressed confidence in the Algarve region's infrastructure and beach conditions, aiming to host the best edition of the games to date. Pedro Dias, Secretary of State for Sport, confirmed government support for the event.