Portimão will honour Paulo Pinheiro, founder and former CEO of the Algarve International Circuit (AIA), with the inauguration of a commemorative sculpture at the racetrack on March 27.
The sculpture, due to be unveiled at the racetrack’s main roundabout, pays tribute to Pinheiro’s vision and legacy in creating one of Portugal’s most important motorsport venues, now internationally recognised for hosting major racing events.
Designed by artist A. Miguel, the sculpture aims to reflect Pinheiro’s entrepreneurial spirit and his key role in bringing top-level motorsport to the Algarve, the municipal council of Portimão says in a statement.
The ceremony will take place at 5.30pm on the opening day of the Superbike World Championship at Portimão – a particularly symbolic moment, as the circuit itself was officially inaugurated during a Superbike event in 2008.
Open to the public, the event is expected to draw fans attending the race weekend, as well as everyone who wants to pay homage to Paulo Pinheiro.
The tribute follows an earlier announcement by Portimão mayor Álvaro Bila in 2024, who confirmed both the sculpture and the naming of the roundabout as “Rotunda Paulo Pinheiro” in recognition of his contribution to the development of the circuit.
Paulo Pinheiro died at the age of 52 on July 10, 2024, after battling cancer.
