The air in the Algarve region is buzzing. Thursday marks the highly anticipated Cândido de Oliveira Super Cup 2025. Fans are gearing up for a big day of football. But behind the roar of the crowd, a massive operation is already in motion. This effort aims to make sure everyone stays safe and traffic keeps moving smoothly around the Algarve Stadium.
The National Republican Guard, known as GNR, is leading this big security plan. Around 450 officers will be on duty. They will cover the stadium area and the roads nearby. Their main goal is simple: keep the peace. They also protect the teams, referees, and all the fans. A key part of their job is guiding cars and people to and from the match without big delays.
This large-scale security effort brings together many GNR specialized teams. The Faro Territorial Command is deploying its personnel. These include officers from territorial, traffic, intervention, and criminal investigation units. Special teams from the Intervention Unit are also part of the plan. They handle public order, special operations, and even include canine teams. Experts are also ready to deactivate any explosive devices. The National Traffic Unit will play a big role too, keeping things flowing on the roads.
Officials expect a large number of spectators to travel to the Algarve for the game. Because of this, the GNR has a clear message for everyone: arrive early. Getting to the stadium well before kickoff is important. This helps with all the security checks and access controls. It means less waiting and more time to enjoy the atmosphere.
Important Safety Tips
To help everyone get inside quickly, and make sure no one misses the start of the game, the GNR shared some important safety tips. Remember these points for a smooth entry:
- Stadium gates will open at 6:45 PM.
- You need a valid physical ticket to get in. Electronic tickets will not be accepted.
- Children aged 3 to 6 can enter. They must be with an adult and have a responsibility form. This form is available on the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) website online. You can also get a paper copy at the stadium’s accreditation kiosks.
- Spectators with a blood alcohol level of 0.8 g/l or higher will not be allowed inside.
- Bringing weapons or pyrotechnic material into the stadium is strictly forbidden.
- Listen carefully to all instructions given by the GNR officers and stadium staff.
- For the event’s security, flying objects like drones are banned. Airspace above the event area is restricted.
Getting Home: Traffic Restrictions
Getting home after the game also has its own rules, especially for drivers. Some traffic restrictions will be in place from 11:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Keep these in mind to plan your exit:
- The A22 highway, heading from Portugal towards Spain, will be closed. This closure affects the stretch between junctions 12 (Km 68.8) and 13 (Km 74). Alternative routes include EN396, EN125, and IC4.
- Access to the IC4 towards Faro will be blocked. Use EN125-4 in the Esteval direction or EM520-1 in the Santa Bárbara direction instead.
- The Troto EN 125 bypass will be closed. The main EN125 road can be used as an alternative.
- Access to the IC4, heading from Faro towards Loulé, will also be closed. Take the EN125 instead.
- You won’t be able to reach the Algarve Stadium via the IC4 directly. Look for access through the “Algar” connection.
This major security and traffic operation aims to make the Cândido de Oliveira Super Cup 2025 a memorable event for all the right reasons. Everyone working together will ensure a great day of football for fans, teams, and the community.