Founder of Algarve Racetrack Paulo Pinheiro honoured with Medal of Tourism Merit by Portuguese government

A “visionary figure” who left a “profound legacy in the Algarve region by turning AIA into one of the most important circuits in the world”

The Portuguese government has posthumously awarded a Medal of Tourism Merit to Paulo Pinheiro, founder of the Algarve International Racetrack (AIA).

A statement from the Regional Development Commission of the Algarve (CCDR Algarve) praises the work of Paulo Pinheiro and his commitment to making the region a world-class motorsports destination: “The recognition of the work carried out by Paulo Pinheiro is entirely just considering his commitment and dream of making the Algarve one of the world’s biggest destinations for motorsports.”

The Medal of Tourism Merit was created in 1969 to honour people and institutions who have contributed to the development of national tourism and the recognition of Portugal as a tourism destination.

In honour of Pinheiro’s contributions to the Algarve and Portugal, a sculpture will be placed on the AIA’s main access roundabout, announced by Portimão mayor Álvaro Bila, last week.

“Paulo Pinheiro, a visionary figure who was passionate about motorsports, left a profound legacy in the Algarve region by turning AIA into one of the most important circuits in the world,” shared Bila, adding that the sculpture will aim to pay tribute to the “lasting impact of his work and his dedication to sports and the promotion of Portimão on the international stage”.

Paulo Pinheiro died in France on July 10 at the age of 52, sparking an outpouring of tributes.

Article originally published by Michael Bruxo on Portugal Resident.

Follow Inside Algarve Magazine on Instagram and Facebook for more news!

Read also:

In line with nature: Odeceixe to welcome new glamping accommodations by wecamp