Rally in Portugal: Deep Water Crossings and Speed Marks Day One

The first special stage of the BP Ultimate Rally Raid in Portugal brought plenty of natural challenges – over the 177-kilometer stage, competitors had to tackle numerous deep water crossings. After heavy rain throughout the night, both CFMOTO Thunder Racing Team riders successfully started and completed their first World Rally-Raid Championship stage of the season.

“The first day brought very changeable weather – from bright blue skies to heavy rain. I got completely soaked. One of the water crossings was so deep that after riding through it, I could feel water running down my back. It was a stage you simply had to endure, survive, and complete,” said Antanas Kanopkinas after the finish, adding that he was happy with his pace and that the mechanics would not have much work to do before the next stage.

However, despite completing the stage at a strong pace, he may receive time penalties, as the device that provides an audible warning when exceeding the speed limit stopped working due to moisture. Although Kanopkinas said he tried to strictly keep the limits everywhere, small mistakes could have happened.

“It rained all night, so in the morning it was important to choose the right gear and stay focused. The stage was very fast, but extremely slippery in the corners. We also had to cross several streams,” said Adomas Gančierius, who was pleased that the stages are closed, allowing riders to focus less on navigation and more on speed.

Competing in Portugal for the first time, Gančierius admitted he had expected different types of terrain, but after the first day he is already enjoying the conditions.

On Thursday, riders will face the longest special stage of the rally – 377 kilometers, along with 131 kilometers of liaison. The long distance will take the entire rally caravan to the Spanish city of Badajoz, where teams will spend two nights. It has become a tradition that part of the BP Ultimate Rally Raid Portugal stages take place in Spain.