Another weekend of heart-pounding racing is in store for the Algarve International Racetrack (AIA) in Portimão, which is preparing to host a MotoGP 2021 race this weekend (November 5-7).
The race, along with the Portugal Masters golf competition, is expected to have a huge positive impact on the region and account for between 90,000 and 120,000 overnight stays in the Algarve.
Speaking to Lusa news agency, Algarve tourism chief João Fernandes highlighted how important it is for the region to host major sports events – especially during the so-called low season.
“MotoGP, according to data from Dorna (the race organiser), has an enormous media impact. Through television alone, it reaches 428 million homes. Then, in terms of websites, apps and social networks, it has 48 million followers/subscribers,” said Fernandes.
João Fernandes also highlighted the fact that there will be spectators in the stands for the MotoGP 2021 race in Portimão thanks to the lifting of restrictions imposed on sports events due to the pandemic.
“We expect to have around 60,000 spectators, which will allow us to have between 90,000 and 120,000 overnight stays in the region, during the low season,” said the tourism boss.
The president of the Algarve tourism board (RTA) and tourism association (ATA) also said that the race is expected to generate an economic impact of around €40 million, taking into account “direct consumption, spending with local suppliers and the indirect impact.”
Fernandes added that this Grand Prix has the added interest of seeing Portuguese rider Miguel Oliveira in the flesh for the first time with fans in the stands. It will also be the last chance to see Italian rider Valentino Rossi, the seven-time world champion who has announced his retirement at the end of this season.
Source: Portugal Resident
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