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The 6 Horas de Portimão is a six-hour GT endurance race at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve near Portimão, bringing together powerful GT3 and GT4 cars, dramatic sunset racing and a lively motorsport atmosphere for fans and curious visitors alike.
7 February 2026
What is the 6 Horas de Portimão?
The 6 Horas de Portimão is a long-distance GT race reserved for GT3 and GT4 machinery, held at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve. It is the first endurance race of the year and the only dedicated long-distance event on the Winter Series calendar.
Across six hours of racing, a varied grid of GT3 and GT4 cars from multiple brands and models takes to the track, creating a colourful and noisy spectacle. The schedule is designed so that part of the race runs into the evening, with the famous Portimão sunset providing a striking backdrop.
Set in the hills just outside Portimão in the western Algarve, the circuit is known for its sweeping corners, elevation changes and modern facilities, making it a popular venue for both professional teams and visiting spectators.
Why visitors and expats will enjoy this event
For tourists, digital nomads and expats living in the Algarve, the 6 Horas de Portimão offers a different kind of winter experience compared with the region’s usual beach and golf activities. It is a chance to feel the excitement of international-style motorsport without leaving southern Portugal.
The combination of winter sunshine, cooler temperatures and a sunset race makes it particularly appealing for photographers and anyone who enjoys dramatic views. The sound of GT engines echoing around the hills, the changing light and the endurance format all add to the atmosphere.
Because it is part of a Winter Series, the event can also be a relaxed way to see race teams preparing for their main seasons, with a more accessible feel than some of the biggest summer championships.
What to expect
As an endurance race, the 6 Horas de Portimão runs continuously for six hours, with teams managing driver changes, pit stops and strategy. Spectators can expect:
- A mixed grid of GT3 and GT4 cars from several manufacturers.
- Plenty of on-track action as cars battle over a long distance rather than just a short sprint.
- Racing that transitions into sunset, with changing light and conditions.
- The characteristic undulating layout of the Algarve circuit, offering interesting viewing points.
The atmosphere is typically informal compared with major world championships, which can make it easier for casual fans and families to enjoy a day at the track without feeling overwhelmed.
Practical information
Dates and general schedule
The 6 Horas de Portimão is scheduled for 7 February 2026. As an endurance event, activity usually runs across the day, with the main race lasting six hours and timed to include the late-afternoon or early-evening sunset period.
Exact session times, support races and detailed timetables are normally confirmed closer to the event, so it is worth checking the latest programme before you travel.
How to get there
The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve is located inland from Portimão in the western Algarve. It sits a short drive from the coast, in a hilly area that is easy to reach by car from many of the region’s main resorts.
From Portimão and nearby coastal towns, the circuit is typically accessed by main roads that connect quickly to the venue. Visitors staying elsewhere in the Algarve, such as the central area around Albufeira or the Faro region, can usually reach the circuit via the main east–west routes that cross the region.
Parking is commonly available at large circuits, but it is wise to arrive in good time, especially on race day, to find a convenient spot and get settled before the start.
Tips for making the most of your visit
To enjoy the 6 Horas de Portimão to the full, consider the following suggestions:
- Arrive early to explore different viewing areas and get a feel for the circuit before the race begins.
- Bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can change from daytime warmth to cooler conditions around sunset.
- Pack ear protection if you are sensitive to noise, especially for children, as GT cars can be loud.
- Allow time to move between vantage points so you can experience the race from different corners and elevations.
- Combine your day at the track with a visit to Portimão or nearby beaches either before or after the event to make the most of your time in the western Algarve.
Whether you are a dedicated motorsport enthusiast or simply curious about trying something new during a winter stay, the 6 Horas de Portimão offers a memorable way to experience high-speed action against the backdrop of the Algarve’s famous sunset.