Rali Vinho da Madeira Reborn as Rali da Madeira in 2025: A New Era for a Rally Steeped in Tradition
The iconic Rali Vinho da Madeira will be renamed Rali da Madeira starting with its 2025 edition, marking a new phase for Portugal’s oldest rally, consistently organized by the same club. The name change, along with other new developments, aims to elevate the event to new heights, reinforcing its international prestige and its impact on Madeira’s regional economy and tourism promotion.
The main reason for the name change stems from the need to adapt to restrictions and bans on alcohol advertising in motorsports—a global trend aimed at promoting a safer and more responsible environment. By removing the reference to "Vinho", Rali da Madeira aligns with current international sports practices, protecting its image and ensuring its long-term continuity.
The event, which in 2025 will celebrate its 66th edition, is a source of pride for Madeira and for the centenary Club Sports da Madeira, which holds the organizing license. Its longevity is a testament to the affection and unconditional support of the Madeiran people over generations, making Rali da Madeira a true celebration of motorsport that encourages broad participation and stimulates the regional economy.
This year’s edition of Rali da Madeira comes with an increase in public funding. With the new structure of the Regional Government, the Regional Secretariat for the Economy has taken over the rally’s budgetary oversight, recognizing the event’s role as a key driver of economic growth and tourism promotion on the island. This strategic alignment seeks to maximize the return on public investment. The increase in the subsidy is justified by the lack of updates over the past eight years—a period during which the costs of organization, logistics, safety, and event control have risen significantly, and are crucial to maintaining the high standards of quality and safety the rally is known for.
With its new name and increased financial backing, Club Sports da Madeira has set ambitious goals. Its priority is to preserve and strengthen the international prestige of the "Rali da Madeira" brand and maintain its iconic reputation as one of the best tarmac rallies in Europe. To achieve this, it is essential to ensure the participation of top foreign drivers and teams.
The 2025 edition will introduce a few key changes. Filipe Sousa will take on the role of rally director, replacing Pedro Melvill de Araújo. As for the course layout, the number of special stages will be reduced from 15 to 13, with the Câmara de Lobos stage being removed.
Rali da Madeira 2025 has confirmed its inclusion in the Peugeot Rally Cup Ibérica, a series designed to attract young drivers from Portugal and Spain, featuring competitive and accessible Peugeot 208 Rally4 vehicles. Additionally, Club Sports da Madeira is in talks with the promoters of the Renault Clio Trophy Portugal, aiming to include this single-make cup in the official 2025 calendar.
With all these new developments, Rali da Madeira 2025 promises to deliver a memorable edition, further consolidating its status as one of the island’s most significant sporting events and a true icon of both national and international motorsport.
