The event, which started and finished in the municipality, attracted significant public support and had a positive impact on the hotel sector, according to the Mayor, Ricardo Araújo. The race served to promote the city nationally and internationally, establishing it as a venue for major sporting and cultural events.
Ricardo Araújo emphasized Guimarães' connection to motorsport, recalling the city's sporting tradition and the recognition of local drivers. Participation in the competition allowed the city's name to reach new audiences and highlight its distinctive resources, with the start at Campo de São Mamede and the awards ceremony reinforcing the municipality's central role.
The tourist and economic dynamics benefited from the event, with hotel occupancy showing positive growth compared to the previous year. The municipal strategy focuses on leveraging Guimarães' history, heritage, and scenery to enhance the territory's attractiveness, associating it with the capacity to host international initiatives and boost the local economy.
In the competitive arena, Latvian driver Mārtiņš Sesks won the overall rally, while Armindo Araújo and Luís Ramalho secured first place in the Portuguese Rally Championship. Pedro Almeida and fellow Vimaranense Pedro Meireles completed the national podium.
The Rally 6 Cities leaves a positive legacy for Guimarães, positioning it as a leading destination for major sporting and cultural initiatives, valuing its unique identity and creating economic opportunities.
