The MXGP of Portugal 2026 officially got underway this Friday at the Crossódromo Internacional de Águeda, marking the start of a thrilling weekend set to welcome thousands of motocross fans in an atmosphere where world-class racing, entertainment and unforgettable experiences go hand in hand.
The opening day was dedicated to the technical and administrative checks for teams and riders, ensuring all categories were ready for the start of the competition. From 3:00 pm, the venue opened its gates to the public, giving the first fans the opportunity to soak up the unique atmosphere ahead of the weekend’s racing.
Throughout the afternoon, MXGP and MX2 riders completed the traditional start practice sessions, providing the first taste of on-track action and exciting the many spectators already gathered at the circuit.
At the same time, the Freestyle Motocross by Monster Energy practice session took place, introducing one of the major new attractions of this year’s event and setting the stage for four spectacular shows that promise to captivate fans throughout the weekend.
Away from the track, a delegation of FIM Motocross World Championship riders, international media representatives and event officials visited the Rio Interpretation Centre, where they discovered the natural and cultural heritage of the Águeda region. The programme also included a tour of the city’s historic centre aboard the tourist train, passing through Águeda’s iconic streets decorated with its world-famous colourful umbrella displays, followed by a tasting of traditional local products.
Among those taking part were several leading stars of the FIM Motocross World Championship, including Ruben Fernandez, Simon Längenfelder, Kevin Horgmo, Liam Everts, Ferruccio Zanchi, Simone Mancini, Francisco Garcia and Jake Cannon, alongside Portuguese riders Duarte Pinto, Bernardo Pinto, Gonçalo Cardoso and Vasco Salgado, who will compete this weekend in the EMX125 and EMX250 Championships. The visit was also attended by Águeda City Council’s Urban Planning Councillor, Carlos Filipe, reinforcing the strong connection between the municipality and one of Portugal’s biggest international sporting events.
The day concluded in style with the opening of the MXGP Music Festival by KORA, bringing hundreds of fans together in the circuit’s entertainment area for an evening filled with music, renowned DJs and an electric atmosphere. The festival returns on Saturday and Sunday from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm, with admission included in every MXGP Portugal ticket.
For ACTIB – Organising Club, the opening day once again demonstrated that the MXGP of Portugal is much more than a sporting event. It is a celebration that showcases the region, promotes Águeda on the international stage and offers a unique experience to everyone visiting the city.
From tomorrow onwards, the focus shifts entirely to the racing, as the world’s best motocross riders take to the track for two days of pure adrenaline at the Crossódromo Internacional de Águeda.
