How is the Madeira Coral Rally Championship going?

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How is the Madeira Coral Rally Championship going?

Rali da Madeira championship saw its number of events increase from seven to eight this year, and promised greater excitement with the arrival of more competitors with Rally2 and Rally4 vehicles. The expectations of the sport's many fans in the archipelago were not disappointed, as competitiveness has driven the five events already held. The season opened in March in Machico, and João Silva prevailed there, driving a Skoda Fabia Rally2 Evo, followed by Miguel Nunes, adapting to his new car, and Miguel Caires.

The championship moved to Santana in April. João Silva started in front but eventually retired after a crash. Miguel Nunes and the Skoda Fabia RS Rally2 survived the deluge that hit the island's north coast better and won, followed by Miguel Caires and José Camacho in the less modern Skoda Fabia R5. The season continued on the north coast, and in May the caravan headed to São Vicente. João Silva was the initial leader but could barely resist the stronger momentum of Miguel Nunes, who won again, sharing the podium with João Silva and Rui Jorge Fernandes.

June brought the Regional "circus" to Ribeira Brava. Silva once again took the lead and won the most special stages, but victory once again went to Nunes, with Silva and Caires close behind. About three weeks ago, the Calheta Rally took place. In the southwest, Miguel Caires held the lead the longest. Miguel Nunes fought back, and they started the final stage tied. The reigning champion's experience was decisive, and he achieved his fourth consecutive victory of the year. João Silva finished on the podium in his debut with the Toyota GR Yaris Rally2.

Rali da Madeira will be the sixth round of the season, with the remaining rallies to be contested: Câmara de Lobos and Funchal in September, and Porto Santo in November. Current standings: 1st: Miguel Nunes, 130; 2nd: João Silva, 93; 3rd: Miguel Caires, 92; 4th: Artur Quintal, 62; 5th: Rui Jorge Fernandes, 59; 6th José Camacho, 47; 7th Vasco D. Silva, 24; 8th Rui Pinto, 21; 9th Paulo Mendes, 20; 10th Sandro Teixeira, 16. 60 pilots are classified.