Türkkan leads Junior WRC standings after Portugal opener

Ali Türkkan surged to the front of the Junior WRC field during Thursday's competitive running in Portugal, topping the timesheets on both the Águeda - Sever stage and the Figueira da Foz super special. A planned run through Sever - Albergaria was neutralized following an incident involving a WRC2 crew, limiting the day's action to two tests.

Türkkan holds a 1.4-second lead over Raul Hernandez Membrado, who opted for a clean, consistent approach on the demanding gravel surfaces. Championship leader Calle Carlberg rounds out the top three, though the Swede noted significant difficulties managing understeer and the abrasive nature of the terrain during his first experience in a four-wheel-drive car on loose surfaces.

Raul Hernández holds fourth overall, followed by Leevi Lassila in fifth. Behind them, Craig Rahill and Kerem Kazaz complete the classification, with Kazaz reporting technical issues with his brakes following the super special. The field now prepares for a challenging Friday, which features a demanding itinerary including multiple passes through the Mortágua, Arganil, and Lousã stages.