Press release - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Educação, Cultura e Desporto

Following statements made by Grupo Desportivo Comercial (GDC) during the press conference presenting the Azores Rally, held on November 12, the Regional Directorate for Sport (DRD) clarifies that the statement about the club not receiving financial support from the Regional Government of the Azores is not true.

As part of the 2025 Azores Rally Championship, Grupo Desportivo Comercial received financial support awarded and already paid by the Regional Directorate for Sport, totalling €10,826.23, corresponding to the Ponta Delgada Rally and Azores Rally:

- Ponta Delgada Rally – €5,918.84;

- Azores Rallye – €4,907.39.

Overall support for the Azores Rally Championship amounts to €85,280.00. It is distributed among the competitions in a balanced manner, based on the average number of drivers, navigators and marshals who have participated in each of the respective competitions over the last four years.

It should also be clarified that, in 2025, it was agreed that the number of competitions in the Azores Rally Championship would be increased, while the overall amount of support provided by the Azorean Government would remain the same. This decision resulted in the same global amount being allocated to one more competition than in 2024.

The DRD reiterates its commitment to transparency, rigour and fairness in the management of public support, acknowledging the importance of organising entities in promoting motor sports and enhancing the visibility of the Autonomous Region of the Azores beyond its borders.