Vitória SC latest club to choose Algarve for pre-season training camp

The Algarve continues to cement its reputation as Portugal’s summer football training base, with historic Portuguese club Vitória SC – commonly known as Vitória de Guimarães – becoming the latest to announce a pre-season camp in the region.

The Vimaranenses will train in the Algarve from July 20 to 26 as they prepare for the 2026/27 campaign, with behind-closed-doors friendlies already scheduled against fellow Primeira Liga club Rio Ave on July 23 and Premier League side Nottingham Forest on July 26.

Preparations for the new season officially begin on Tuesday with medical examinations, followed by the squad’s first training session on Thursday under head coach Tiago Margarido.

Vitória SC join a growing list of clubs choosing the Algarve for pre-season, attracted by the region’s training facilities, climate and infrastructure. Sporting CP will also spend part of its preparations in the region, while several international teams are expected to follow throughout the summer. SL Benfica will also play two friendly matches in the region.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.