Choose Portugal for your Next Sporting Adventure

Portugal is a paradise for sports enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of events set against breathtaking landscapes. From high-speed motor racing in the Algarve to endurance challenges along the Atlantic coast, the country’s sporting calendar is packed with world-class competitions that attract athletes and spectators from around the globe.

Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT)

​The Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT) is a premier event in the trail running calendar, attracting athletes from around the globe to the picturesque island of Madeira. Scheduled for April 26-27, 2025, this challenging race offers participants the opportunity to traverse the island’s diverse terrains, from coastal paths to mountainous regions, providing a comprehensive test of endurance and skill. The MIUT 115 race (the longest) will start at 12:00 a.m. on April 26, 2025, from the centre of Porto Moniz. The event not only showcases Madeira’s natural beauty but also its rich cultural heritage, making it a must-experience for trail running enthusiasts.​

Douro Valley Half Marathon

While many are familiar with Lisbon’s Marathon and Half Marathon, ​the Douro Valley Half Marathon, scheduled for May 25, 2025, offers runners a picturesque 21-kilometer course along the stunning Douro River. Starting at the Bagaúste dam in Armamar and concluding on Avenida do Douro in Peso da Régua, participants will traverse breathtaking landscapes in the world’s oldest demarcated wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This internationally acclaimed event attracts thousands of runners from around the globe.

Photo credit: Douro Granfondo

Other events in the Douro Valley include the Douro Granfondo, a cycling race that features 2,000 participants across three distances – 58 km, 99 km, and 149 km.

Irish Rugby Summer Tour 2025

The Irish Rugby Summer Tour 2025 will bring top-class international rugby to Portugal as Ireland faces the national team in a highly anticipated test match on July 12, 2025, in Lisbon. This marks an exciting opportunity for Portuguese rugby to test itself against one of the world’s leading teams, while Irish fans can experience the vibrant capital city in a thrilling sporting atmosphere. Beyond the match, visitors can explore Lisbon’s rich history, stunning waterfront, and renowned cuisine, making it an unforgettable destination for travelling supporters.

Photo credit: Rugby Summer Tour

Caramulo Motorfestival

The Caramulo Motorfestival, scheduled from September 5 to 7, 2025, is a celebration of classic and sports automobiles and motorcycles, set in the scenic town of Caramulo. This festival seamlessly blends competitive racing with leisurely activities, making it a must-visit for both motorsport enthusiasts and casual visitors. A highlight of the event is the Caramulo Ramp, part of the National Mountain Championship and the Caterham Trophy. Attendees can also enjoy events like the Luso-Caramulo Historic Rally and the Viseu-Caramulo Historic Ride. Beyond the races, the festival features an Automobilia trade fair and showcases the impressive collections of the local museum. Nestled in the Serra do Caramulo, the area offers breathtaking landscapes perfect for outdoor pursuits such as mountain climbing, rappelling, and cycling.​

Cascais hosts Tennis, Swim Grand Prix and IRONMAN

Tennis enthusiasts will love the Estoril Open Portugal’s premier tennis tournament, attracting some of the world’s top players to the beautiful coastal town of Cascais. Beginning on April 26th, it will be held on the prestigious Clube de Ténis do Estoril’s clay courts.

Also taking place in Cascais is the Swim Grand Prix Cascais. Held in September, it is an open water swimming competition that follows the route from Lisbon to Oeiras, finishing in Cascais.
Photo credit: Swim Grand Prix Cascais​

And not for the fainthearted, the IRONMAN 70.3 Portugal-Cascais is scheduled for October 18, 2025. This triathlon features a 1.9 km swim starting at Ribeira Beach, known for its supportive crowds and scenic views. Athletes then embark on a 90 km cycling course that extends along the picturesque Avenida Marginal to Algés, offering stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, and returns through the Serra de Sintra, culminating along the Guincho road. The event concludes with a two-loop run along the promenade adjacent to the beaches of Cascais, Estoril, and São Pedro. This competition offers 50 qualifying slots for the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship.

MotoGP Grand Prix of Portugal

​The MotoGP Grand Prix of Portugal is set to electrify the Algarve region from November 7 to 9, 2025, at the renowned Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão. This event, a highlight of the world speed motorcycling championship, promises unparalleled excitement as top riders navigate the circuit’s challenging layout, characterized by dramatic elevation changes and fast corners. Fans can anticipate a thrilling spectacle in a picturesque setting, making it a must-attend for motorsport enthusiasts. ​

Photo credit: MotoGP Grand Prix of Portugal

Portugal will also co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Morocco, with matches in Porto and Lisbon. For Irish football fans, a key fixture arrives sooner—Portugal faces Ireland on October 11, 2025, in a 2026 World Cup Qualifier.

Whether it’s football, motorsport, or running, Portugal offers unforgettable sporting experiences, blending competition with rich culture and stunning landscapes.