The official presentation of the Portuguese round of the 2025 FIM Trial World Championship took place last Thursday ahead of the highly anticipated event set to unfold on April 11, 12, and 13 in the stunning city of Viana do Castelo.
The event was attended by key figures, including Dr. Ricardo Rego – Sports Councillor of the Viana do Castelo Municipality, Daniel Costa – President of Motoclube Foz do Lima, Manuel Vieira – President of the FMP Trial Commission, Nuno Feliz – Clerk of the Course, and Mariana Afonso, a local rider. Also present was Paulo Marques, a legendary figure in Portuguese motorsport.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of the official promotional video, along with two special messages from Jorge Viegas, President of the FIM – International Motorcycling Federation, and Manuel Marinheiro, President of the FMP – Portuguese Motorcycling Federation.
Speaking at the presentation, Sports Councillor Ricardo Rego expressed his hopes that Viana do Castelo will be one of the best stages of this Trial World Championship. He also emphasized that the municipality’s support for world-class events like this aims to inspire local athletes by allowing them to engage with their international idols, ultimately fostering the growth of the sport in the region.
Portugal Strengthens Its Presence in the Trial World Championship
This marks Portugal’s 15th time hosting a round of the Trial World Championship, and for the first time, the vibrant city of Viana do Castelo will welcome this thrilling competition. The event further reinforces Portugal’s commitment to top-tier motorsport events while establishing the Minho region as a prime destination for international sports. As the second stop in the seven-round 2025 TrialGP calendar, the event will be organized by Motoclube Foz do Lima in partnership with the Viana do Castelo Municipality. The choice of location highlights the region’s exceptional infrastructure and breathtaking landscapes, key factors in bringing this world-class competition to Portugal.
The Competition
The event will gather the elite of Trial racing, featuring around 100 riders from 16 different nationalities, competing across five categories: TrialGP, TrialGP Women, Trial2, Trial2 Women and Trial3. With an idyllic backdrop, the paddock will be set up along the scenic riverside area, next to the iconic Gil Eannes Hospital Ship. From there, riders will take on the challenging course at Monte de Santa Luzia, featuring 12 sections – including three artificial obstacle zones scattered throughout the city. Each rider will complete the course twice on both Saturday and Sunday, while Friday will be dedicated to technical checks and zone inspections.
Portuguese Participation in Trial2 Women
Local talent Mariana Afonso will be the only Portuguese rider competing in this event. Although her primary focus is Enduro, where she is currently battling for the national title, she couldn’t miss the chance to compete at home in the discipline that launched her career.
"It will be an immense honor to return to world-class competition and race in my hometown. We are certain this will be an unforgettable event" said Mariana Afonso.
With Spain’s close proximity – a country with a strong tradition in Trial racing – and Viana do Castelo’s spectacular setting, a massive turnout of spectators is expected, both from Portugal and from “nuestros hermanos” across the border. This event promises to be a milestone in both the national and international sporting calendar, further elevating Viana do Castelo and Portugal as key players in the world of motorsport.
Photos: CMVC
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