Portugal to Miss 2027 World Rally Championship Calendar, Eyes 2028 Return
The iconic gravel-based Rally Portugal will be absent from the 2027 World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar, with organisers confirming that discussions are already underway to secure its return in 2028.
Portugal’s absence marks a significant change for one of the championship’s most historic events, which has been a regular fixture of the WRC since its inaugural season in 1973.
The Automóvel Club de Portugal (ACP), the event’s organisers, confirmed on Tuesday, September 29, that the Vodafone Rally Portugal will not take place as part of next year’s championship despite having an agreed date of May 13–16, 2027.
The decision follows changes to the WRC calendar planning by the championship promoter, which is reportedly seeking to create a more geographically diverse and intercontinental schedule.
In a statement, the ACP explained that Portugal was among the events affected by the latest scheduling adjustments.
“Already with a date scheduled between May 13 and 16, as a result of changes made by the promoter on the last day of preparation for the next season of the World Rally Championship (WRC), with the aim of making it as geographically diverse and intercontinental as possible, the Vodafone Rally Portugal was one of the tests whose scheduling was affected,” the statement read.
Organisers Target 2028 Comeback
Despite missing the 2027 season, Portuguese rally organisers remain hopeful of returning to the championship.
The ACP confirmed that initial discussions with the WRC promoter have already taken place to explore the possibility of reinstating Rally Portugal in 2028.
The event secured a new three-year agreement in 2025, which was expected to keep it on the WRC calendar until at least 2028.
Rally Portugal has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with the championship, having only missed the calendar between 2002 and 2006 during a period of absence.
Its demanding gravel stages, challenging terrain and passionate spectators have helped establish it as one of the most recognisable events in international rallying.
Major Changes Expected on the 2027 WRC Calendar
Although the official 2027 WRC calendar has yet to be announced, the championship is understood to be in the final stages of confirming next season’s schedule.
Rome, Scotland and the United States are among the locations expected to feature as potential new additions, reflecting the promoter’s ambition to expand the championship’s international footprint.
Portugal’s removal would therefore form part of a wider calendar restructuring aimed at increasing the championship’s geographical reach.
For now, Portuguese rally fans will have to wait until 2028 for a possible return of the country’s iconic gravel event to the World Rally Championship.
