Round two of this year’s IRC takes place on the Rally Portugal, which is based in the Algarve city of Faro. The rally also contains the most impressive entry list yet to be seen on an IRC event, with former World Champion Didier Auriol amongst the leading entries and two-time World Champion Marcus Gronholm driving the zero car. ... 
 
These top drivers have been attracted by what is well-known as a classic event. The Portugal Rally has formed part of the sport’s history over the years, and it is well-known for spectacular gravel stages, breathtaking scenery, and a warm and enthusiastic local public.

In the past, the Portugal Rally used to be based towards the north of the country, in the city of Oporto, but for the last three years it has found a home in Faro.

The actual stages are top quality, providing a massively enjoyable challenge to all the drivers, with the surfaces made up of soft and loose gravel. There are not too many rocks, and the surfaces tend to clean moderately after the passage of the first car – making things fair for everybody. Although the summer months are almost upon us, the weather at this time of year in the Algarve can be unpredictable: two years ago the rally was blighted by thick fog.

New for this year is a two-kilometre spectator superspecial stage around the streets of Faro. This new stage is compact but very quick, so is sure to provide plenty of entertainment for the many spectators that are expected.

After the initial taster, the opening day of real action will see the competitors tackle seven special stages on Friday, with two service halts in total during the day. Competitors return to parc ferme at 18:09, having completed the first 118 competitive kilometres of this challenging event.

The action resumes at 0805 the following morning, when the crews tackle a morning loop of three stages that is repeated in the afternoon, with central service at Faro stadium in between. The winner is scheduled to cross the finish ramp at 18:10 in Faro on Saturday evening.