### Time Trial of 19.6 km Set to Determine the Champion

The **Emirates super-team** is gearing up to conquer three races this Sunday: the **Tour of Emirates** led by Tadej Pogacar, the **Andalusia** with Pavel Sivakov, and the **Algarve**. In Portugal, they have three targets aimed at the final victory. The decisive moment will be a **19.6 km time trial**, with the last **2.6 km uphill**, promising an exhilarating finish.

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Contrarrelógio de 19.6 km (últimos 2.6 a subir) vão decidir vencedor

Exciting Showdown: Time Trial Decides Winner at Algarve Tour This Sunday!

### Portugal's Festival da Canção Returns
The long-awaited **Festival da Canção** is back in Portugal, bringing excitement for three weeks as the country prepares for the **Eurovision 2025** contest. The first semi-final took place in RTP's studios in Lisbon, featuring **ten entries** and a unique voting system that combined public and jury decisions.

### Semi-Final Results
The results of the first semi-final are as follows:
#### First Round of Voting
- Five finalists were determined through a **50% jury** and **50% public voting**.

#### Second Round of Voting
- The sixth finalist was chosen solely by the audience through a quick **flash vote** that lasted only a few minutes.

The semi-final was hosted by **José Carlos Malato** and **Jorge Gabriel**, with **Alexandre Guimarães** guiding the green room and interviewing the acts. The jury panel included notable figures such as **Fábia Rebordão**, **Iolanda**, and **Tiago Nacarato**. As an interval act, the band **Folk Fogo** performed, adding a vibrant touch to the evening.

### Festival Overview
To select the song and artist representing Portugal in **Basel (Switzerland)** for the **Eurovision 2025**, RTP will host three shows this year:
- **Semi-Final 1**: February 22, 2025 (Hosts: Jorge Gabriel, José Carlos Malato)
- **Semi-Final 2**: March 1, 2025 (Hosts: Tânia Ribas de Oliveira, Sónia Araújo)
- **Final**: **March 8, 2025** (Hosts: Filomena Cautela, Vasco Palmeirim)

Each semi-final will qualify six songs, leading to a total of **12 finalists**.

### Portugal's Eurovision Journey
Since its debut in **1964**, Portugal has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest 55 times, facing challenges along the way, including a zero-point start. It wasn't until **2017** that Portugal won with **Salvador Sobral's** "Amar Pelos Dois". Since the introduction of semi-finals in 2004, Portugal has qualified for the Grand Final **9 out of 18 times**.

Ten songs were performed in Portugal's national selection for Eurovision 2025. Out of those, six qualified and will be returning in two weeks for Festival da Canção final

Portugal's Festival da Canção 2025: Meet the First Six Qualifiers for the Eurovision Final!

### The Long-Awaited New Airport of Lisbon

After **over fifty years of analysis**, the construction of the **New Airport of Lisbon (NAL)** at the Alcochete Shooting Range has finally been decided. This project has been **four decades delayed** compared to Spain, but it also brings the promise of a new **High-Speed Rail (AV)** network that is expected to be in **European gauge**.

### Integration of AV and Airport Facilities

Integrating AV with major airport infrastructures is a **decisive objective** for effective transport policies worldwide, particularly concerning **passenger traffic**. The new AV line connecting Porto and Galicia to the Sá Carneiro Airport is essential for serving populations, tourism, and business, enhancing Porto's **centrality** in the Northwest Peninsula.

### Opportunities Amid Delays

Despite lamenting the significant delays, this presents a **great opportunity** to execute the project flawlessly, ensuring future generations view it favorably. To establish NAL as a major hub, intercontinental and regional connections must be supplemented by AV linking to key cities in Portugal and Spain.

### Necessary Infrastructure Developments

A **new railway crossing of the Tagus** is urgently needed due to the NAL's location and the new AV network. Studies from two decades ago indicated that **60% of passengers** traveling between the two banks of the Tagus could be efficiently served by a new **Algés-Trafaria crossing**. This would alleviate congestion on the **25 de Abril Bridge**.

### The Chelas-Barreiro vs. Lisbon-Montijo Debate

The discussion surrounding the Chelas-Barreiro crossing versus the Lisbon-Montijo crossing remains **controversial**. The government approved the NAL's location in Alcochete in 2008, but subsequent evaluations have often mismanaged mobility criteria. Proper prioritization would place AV and access to NAL first, suburban connections second, and long-distance services third.

### The Optimal Solution for National Interests

The Lisbon-Montijo option appears to be the most beneficial for the country, aligning well with the NAL and facilitating AV connections. This strategy envisions Lisbon as a **hub for AV**, connecting with Porto, Madrid, and the Algarve.

### Environmental Considerations in Infrastructure

The most cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution may be an **immersed tunnel**, as suggested for the Algés-Trafaria crossing. This exclusively railway option would not require ventilation openings, similar to existing tunnels in **Marmara Sea** and **Scandinavian** regions.

In summary, the integration of the NAL with a new AV network poses complex challenges that require thorough analysis and dialogue among stakeholders to ensure successful implementation.

Se queremos fazer do NAL um importante HUB, as ligações intercontinentais e regionais têm que ser complementadas pela AV com as principais cidades de Portugal e com muitas de Espanha.

The Future of Lisbon's New Airport: Key Infrastructure Developments Ahead

### Tragic Incident During Tourist Excursion

A **54-year-old Portuguese tourist**, Maria do Céu Nunes Silva, tragically lost her life on Saturday morning during a **tourist excursion** in **São Tomé and Príncipe**. The incident has also resulted in **two additional injuries** among the participants.

![Accident Scene](https://asset.skoiy.com/jnrcnjwljorqgsbu/ksfcxtlqg6uc.jpg?w=1852&q=80&crop=764,509,67,0)
*Accident occurred during a tourist excursion and claimed the life of Maria do Céu Nunes Silva. Photo: Facebook*

Uma turista portuguesa de 54 anos morreu, este sábado de manhã, num acidente durante uma excursão turística em São Tomé e Príncipe. Há ainda mais dois feridos.

Tragic Accident Claims Life of Portuguese Tourist in São Tomé and Príncipe

### Miguel Albuquerque's Reaction to Investigation

The President of the Regional Government, **Miguel Albuquerque**, reacted today to the news that regional secretaries **Rogério Gouveia**, **Pedro Ramos**, and **Pedro Fino**, along with the Secretary-General of PSD-M, **José Prada**, were questioned as part of the 'Ab Initio' investigation. Albuquerque emphasized that **"no one is accused or convicted of anything"**.

### Confidence in His Team

Albuquerque expressed his **confidence in the secretaries**, highlighting their **absolute integrity** within society and asserting that this situation does not weaken the government.

### Clarification on Election Candidacy

He clarified that Gouveia, Ramos, and Fino are not on the PSD-M list for the upcoming regional legislative elections, noting that it has **never been a tradition** for the party to nominate secretaries as candidates.

### Political Context

Albuquerque remarked, **"It has nothing to do with one another"**, adding that the ongoing situation in Madeira involves **unfounded accusations** that could lead to public officials being treated as suspects.

He further explained that the situation would only weaken the party if the **judicial system** was being exploited for political advantage. According to him, **"people know each other and know who the real wrongdoers are"**.

### Criticism of Political Maneuvering

Albuquerque criticized those who engage in **political games** that hinder the progress and development of Madeira. 

### Statements from Involved Parties

During the celebrations of the **175th anniversary of the Funchal Municipal Band**, one of the individuals involved, Secretary of Equipment and Infrastructure **Pedro Fino**, stated he is **"at peace"** after being questioned by the police. 

The investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen whether any charges will be filed.

O presidente do Governo Regional reagiu, hoje, ao facto de os secretários regionais Rogério Gouveia, Pedro Ramos e Pedro Fino e o secretário geral do PSD-M, José Prada, terem sido ouvidos no âmbito do processo ‘Ab Initio’.&nbsp;Miguel Albuquerque disse que "ninguém está acusado ou condenado de nada".

Miguel Albuquerque Defends Regional Secretaries Amid Investigation: 'No One is Accused or Convicted'

# Belgian Cyclist Milan Fretin Triumphs in Faro

This Saturday, **Milan Fretin** from **Cofidis** claimed victory in the **fourth stage** of the **Volta ao Algarve**, taking the win in a thrilling sprint at the finish line in **Faro**. He outpaced his compatriot **Jordi Meeus** (Red Bull), the winner of the previous day's stage in **Tavira**, as well as **Filippo Ganna** (INEOS). This win marks Fretin's **second victory** within a week, following his success at the **Clássica de Almeria**.

## Best Portuguese Performance

**António Morgado** from **Emirates** was the top Portuguese rider in this stage, finishing in **14th place**.

## Upcoming Challenges

As the main group crossed the finish line together, including **Jonas Vingegaard** from **Visma**, who suffered a puncture in the last three kilometers but remained protected, the ultimate outcome will be decided on **Sunday** during the final stage. This stage will feature a **time trial** connecting **Salir** to the **Alto do Malhão**, covering **2.7 kilometers** of climbing.

Leading the race is **Jan Christen** from **Emirates**, with a slim **four-second** lead over **João Almeida** (Emirates), while Vingegaard sits in **fifth place**, **20 seconds** behind.

For full standings, check [here](https://108.181.34.57/pt/direto-etapa-4/?__cpo=aHR0cHM6Ly92b2x0YWFvYWxnYXJ2ZS5jb20).

Milan Fretin Dominates Stage 4 of the Algarve Tour in a Thrilling Sprint Finish

### Who is Ricardo Pereira?
Ricardo da Silva Tavares Pereira, born on **September 14, 1979**, is a renowned Portuguese actor who has captured the hearts of audiences in both **Portugal** and **Brazil**. He began his acting career at the age of **21**, quickly making a name for himself in the entertainment industry. Recently, fans have been curious about where Ricardo Pereira resides, particularly given his international career and frequent travels between the two countries.

### Where Does Ricardo Pereira Live?
Despite his international career that often takes him to **Brazil**, Ricardo maintains strong ties to his native **Portugal**. He is currently investing in a **luxurious mansion in Greater Lisbon**, valued at **€1.5 million**. This property will serve as his retreat during his stays in Portugal, allowing him to enjoy quality time with family while staying connected to his Portuguese roots.

The mansion is situated in a prestigious condominium that offers various amenities including a **golf course**, **gym**, and **supermarket**, ensuring a comfortable and exclusive lifestyle for his family. The exact location of the house is kept private for security reasons.

### Life in Lisbon
The **Portuguese capital** is known for its **exceptional quality of life**, featuring a mild climate, rich cultural heritage, and diverse **gastronomy** that attracts residents and tourists alike. The advantages of living in Lisbon are numerous, with efficient **public transport** and proximity to beaches and green spaces providing a perfect balance between urban life and nature.

The **real estate market in Lisbon** has seen significant growth in recent years, reflecting the city's increasing popularity. Renting or buying a home in Lisbon can be quite competitive, with prices varying based on location and property features. Currently, the average **price per square meter in Lisbon** is around **€5,453**, and rental prices hover around **€21.9/m²**.

### Ricardo Pereira's Career
Ricardo Pereira began his career in theater in **2000** with the play "Real Caçada ao Sol" at the **Teatro Nacional D. Maria II**. He gained fame on Portuguese television through roles in soap operas like "Saber Amar" and "O Bairro da Fonte" in **2002**. Over the years, he has solidified his presence in both television and film productions in **Portugal** and **Brazil**, where he has become a well-known figure.

Currently, Ricardo is part of the cast of the series "O Clube" on OPTO, and he appears in the soap opera "A Herança" on SIC, as well as the series "Lume" on **MAX** and "Rabo de Peixe" on **Netflix**, both set to premiere in **2025**.

### Family Life
Beyond his international acting career, Ricardo Pereira is a dedicated family man. He has been married since **2010** to **Francisca Pinto Ribeiro**, a Portuguese entrepreneur, and together they have built a solid and happy life. The couple has three children: **Vicente** (born November 22, 2011), **Francisca** (born October 29, 2013), and **Julieta** (born September 1, 2017). Ricardo is known to be a **loving and present father**, balancing his international career with quality time spent with his family.

Entre Lisboa e o Rio de Janeiro, Ricardo Pereira construiu um lar para sua família, sem abrir mão do glamour e da proximidade com o trabalho.

Inside Ricardo Pereira's Lavish €1.5 Million Mansion in Greater Lisbon

### Intensified Attacks on PS Leader

Rui Caetano expressed concerns at the PS congress, stating that **as power slips away from PSD**, attacks on PS leader **Paulo Cafôfo** have intensified. He highlighted the **persecutions** faced by public servants and members of various organizations who are affiliated with socialism, noting that they have faced threats of dismissal.

### Praise for Resilience

Caetano praised these **"heroes"** who continue to fight despite the **threats**, referring to them as individuals from different municipalities and parish councils who oppose the current government.

### PSD's Dwindling Power

He emphasized that **"PSD is in trouble"** as they are aware they will lose power and that the **PS will become the government**. Caetano also pointed out that the program presented by PS in 2019 has been adopted by the current government and other parties in terms of policy measures. He concluded with confidence that **Paulo Cafôfo will be elected as president of the Regional Government**.

“Como o poder está a fugir do PSD”, os ataques ao líder do PS, Paulo Cafôfo, têm sido mais intensos. A opinião foi partilhada com os congressistas na ...

Exciting Showdown: Time Trial Decides Winner at Algarve Tour This Sunday!

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Time Trial of 19.6 km Set to Determine the Champion

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Other Latest News

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Miguel Albuquerque Defends Regional Secretaries Amid Investigation: 'No One is Accused or Convicted'

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Inside Ricardo Pereira's Lavish €1.5 Million Mansion in Greater Lisbon

Rui Caetano Warns: PSD's Power is Slipping Away as Attacks Intensify on PS Leader