In the 2024 season, March was time for the AIA (Autódromo Internacional do Algarve) to host the MotoGP, which is the biggest motorsport event in our country.
For many years now, Portugal has had riders involved in the biggest motorcycle competitions in the world, and not just in speed tracks.
I quickly remember three pilots who were references, Miguel Praia in speed tracks (still linked to training at AIA), Paulo Marques or the late Paulo Gonçalves, both in Off-Road. Obviously, it is enough to remember the names present in races such as the Dakar, Superbikes, SuperSport or Supercross, and we will see other riders whose performance makes us so proud.
Regardless of whether or not they manage to win their respective competitions, the national “wave of support” continues to grow. It is passion that moves us, not titles won.
These riders, internationally and to the world, personify our devotion to the world of two wheels, Motorcycling.
I don’t mean to say that Portuguese motorcyclists are more passionate than any other in their respective country, but in what was considered the country of the three “F’s” (Football, Fado and Fátima), we certainly show that when you like something, dignity and value gather more recognition than excessive ambition, which can sometimes so easily turn into arrogance.
These days, Miguel Oliveira is our most distinguished representative. It fills us with pride to be Portuguese, extremely technically competent and recognized for that, but also for maintaining his availability, directness and friendship with his supporters and fellow compatriots.
Another personality who represents us at the highest level is the President of the FIM (International Motorcycling Federation), Jorge Viegas. Recognized and admired internationally, which is the reason for his reelection to the position in 2022. If he had not been competent in his duties, he would certainly have served one term and then left. However, even when he was President of the then National Motorcycle Federation (later converted into the Portuguese Motorcycle Federation), since 1990, it was easy to see him having his coffee in a pastry shop in Parede (Cascais), with the simplicity that characterizes him.
For all this, also in this aspect of recognition and admiration for our greatest exponents in motorcycling, we are different. The values that we nurture and guide us are not tangible, which is why they prevail over time and are difficult to break.
Let us motorcyclists know how to keep it that way and prove that the passion for an activity may not move mountains, but it helps to override them.
Enjoy your ride.
