Algarve Golden Race: The Pigeon Race That Attracts the World

The 2026 Algarve Golden Race has entered its decisive phase. After several months of training and Hotspots, the international pigeon racing competition is now preparing for the grand final, with the finish line at the loft in Monte Gordo.

This year's edition has once again brought together participants from various countries and thousands of pigeons, in a competition where endurance, orientation, and speed are put to the test over progressively longer distances.

A particularly demanding semi-final

The semi-final took place on September 25th, with the release in Monfortinho and a course of approximately 318 km.

The race had initially been scheduled for September 22nd, but was postponed due to high temperatures. Even after the change, the heat ended up marking the race and making the return difficult for many pigeons.

According to the organization, the weather conditions and the passage through the plains of the Alentejo may have contributed to several birds stopping near lakes and dams during the journey.

Semi-final Top 3

In the sixth official race, first place was taken by Team Kallen-C, followed by Ferry de Kok and Regal Lofts.

Ferry de Kok also stood out among the pigeons available for activation, with the pigeon R2-NL 4436-Ferry 558 classified in 2nd place in the semi-final and subsequently activated for the final.

Pigeons can be activated for the grand final

One of the particularities of this phase is the possibility of acquiring the rights to certain pigeons not yet paid for or activated by their respective owners.

Activation costs €750 per pigeon. Once confirmed and paid, the new owner is entitled to any prizes the pigeon may win and the corresponding percentage of the future auction sale.

The current activation period ends on Wednesday at 5 pm and requests must be sent exclusively to the organization's official email.

Final with departure from Bragança

To allow for better recovery of the birds, the organization decided to carry out the basketing for the final on Friday, October 2nd, between 2 pm and 5 pm.

The pigeons will then be transported to Bragança, a journey of about nine hours, with time provided for rest and hydration before the release.

An international competition in the Algarve

The Algarve Golden Race combines pigeon racing tradition with technology. The pigeons are individually monitored through the Benzing system and the rankings can be followed online.

Throughout the 2026 edition, the races covered distances of 138 km, 170 km, 196 km, 207 km, 269 km, and 318 km, in addition to the initial training sessions.

The Algarve is also discovered this way

The Algarve Golden Race shows a lesser-known side of the region. Beyond the beaches and traditional tourism, the Algarve hosts international competitions linked to very specific communities with followers in several countries.

Now, all eyes are on the 2026 grand final.