"Everything is on track for this to be a success; things are already up and running. In terms of registrations, we are already close to 7,000, and the entire infrastructure is set up," stated Pedro Baptista, president of the Faro Motorcycle Club and the event's organiser, during the opening press conference.


More registrations

Baptista noted that the number of registrations at this stage is higher than last year's, estimating a total of 20,000 registrants over the event's four days. The rally features new elements within a venue set up in an area that previously held "nothing" but dirt, trees, and nature.

"We prepared all of this in the span of a month, thanks to the support of volunteers and club members," Baptista highlighted.

More than a biker gathering

Representing Algarve Tourism, José Matias, a member of the Algarve Tourism Region's Executive Committee, stated that the Faro International Motorcycle Rally is "much more than just a biker gathering"; it has become a "major event" that helps "establish the Algarve as a dynamic destination."

He noted that the rally's impact is felt across the hospitality and restaurant sectors, transforming it into an "anchor event" for the Algarve that promotes the region internationally, much like other global events such as MotoGP, Formula 1, or golf tournaments.

"For the Algarve Tourism Region, this is definitely an anchor event. We can only congratulate the organisers," added the regional tourism representative.

Health services ready

Also present at the press conference was Bárbara Ribeiro, head of the event’s field hospital, located at Vale das Almas, near Faro Airport, who confirmed that everything is ready to attend to visitors in the event of a medical need or emergency.

“Just like in previous years, we are prepared to handle any incidents that may arise during this event. We have a team of around 39 volunteer doctors ready, and we are also working in close collaboration with the Portuguese Red Cross, which is providing the teams that will be on-site […], as well as the ambulances, crew members, and nurses,” she assured.

The healthcare professionals' main goal is to handle as many cases as necessary without placing an undue burden on Faro Hospital, Ribeiro noted.

“I hope that the general public exercises caution while driving to avoid accidents, and also pays attention to alcohol consumption within the venue, so that everything goes as smoothly as possible,” Ribeiro warned.

Region's major event

Meanwhile, the Mayor of Faro, António Miguel Pina, described the motorcycle rally as “one of the region's major events,” noting that the municipality is an “active partner” in it.

Pina thanked the Motorcycle Club for creating a “very affordable” ticket option that allows the local community to visit the venue on opening day, which features performances by Rui Veloso and Xutos & Pontapés.

“It is not just a moment of fun for the people of Faro; it also represents the growing bond between the Faro Motorcycle Club and the local community. This symbiosis is becoming increasingly perfect and is once again highlighted by the opportunity for everyone to visit the venue at a very affordable price,” the mayor stated.

Gigs taking place

The night of 16 July is dedicated to the local audience, with an admission price of €10, and features only national acts: GNTK, Xutos & Pontapés, and David Antunes. On Friday, the Spanish band Mojinos Escozios, the Portuguese band UHF, and HMB will perform. On 18 July, musician Rui Veloso and the British band UB40 will perform.