When was the track built?

Lousada International Circuit was originally built in 1984. Local motorcycle and car events helped motorsport grow in the area, eventually leading to the formation of the Clube Automóvel de Lousada in 1987.

The circuit hosted rounds of the FIA European Rallycross Championship between 1991 and 2008. During this period, Lousada became one of Portugal's best-known motorsport venues.

How has the circuit changed?

Lousada underwent extensive reconstruction before international rallycross returned in 2025. The work created a modern mixed-surface layout with new safety barriers, improved spectator facilities and a distinctive banked gravel corner.

The rebuilt circuit hosted the opening round of the 2025 World Rallycross Championship, attracting more than 10,000 spectators. It later became part of the FIA European Rallycross calendar.

What's the circuit like?

• Short but demanding: A lap is completed quickly, so drivers have little time to recover after a mistake.
• Steep downhill section: Cars descend towards a loose-surface corner where braking stability and accurate positioning are essential.
• Banked gravel bend: The raised outer edge helps cars carry speed, but dust and loose stones can reduce visibility.
• Fast asphalt finish: Cars return to tarmac near the Joker Lap before accelerating along the start-finish straight.

How does rallycross work?

• Short races: Several cars start together and compete over only a few laps, creating immediate action.
• Mixed surfaces: Drivers must adjust their braking and steering whenever they move between asphalt and gravel.
• Joker Lap: Every driver must use a longer alternative route once during each race. Choosing the right moment is an important strategy decision.
• Close competition: Cars often race side by side and may make light contact, although unfair or dangerous driving can be penalised.

Major events and traditions

• World and European Rallycross: International events bring powerful RX1 cars and smaller production-based categories to Lousada.
• Portuguese Rallycross Championship: National competitors race here in several car and kartcross divisions.
• Rally de Portugal: The venue has also been adapted into a compact super special stage for the World Rally Championship.
• Six Hours of Rallycross: A traditional endurance event challenges teams to share cars and complete far more laps than in a normal rallycross race.

Why go?

Lousada sits inside a natural amphitheatre, allowing spectators on the surrounding terraces to see almost the entire circuit. This makes the racing easy to understand, even for someone attending rallycross for the first time.

The track is also close to the town rather than being isolated in the countryside. Major meetings combine racing with fan areas, demonstrations and a lively local atmosphere.

Where's the best place to watch?

• High spectator terraces: Best for seeing the complete circuit and following Joker Lap strategy.
• Start and first corner: Good for rapid launches, several cars running side by side and early position changes.
• Banked gravel corner: The most dramatic location for slides, dust and drivers using different lines.
• Joker Lap junction: Best for watching cars separate and rejoin as their race strategies develop.
• Main straight: Good for the starting procedure, close finishes and views of the team buildings.