Rúben Rodrigues took the lead of the Rali da Água from the first special stage, maintaining command through the third timed section. The Skoda driver achieved the feat of overtaking Armindo Araújo, who ended up retiring from the competition.
Armindo Araújo's retirement, who was one of the favorites of the event, opened the way for Rúben Rodrigues to consolidate his position at the top of the standings. Without the competition from the driver who retired, Rodrigues was able to manage his advantage throughout the first timed sections.
Rúben Rodrigues' Skoda proved competitive from the start of the rally, with the driver maintaining a consistent pace that allowed him to reach the third timed section leading the event. The lead obtained in the first special stages proved fundamental to his position in the race.
