Lithuanian rally driver Baciuška managed to maintain a stable pace for most of the day during the recent stage in Portugal, holding second place and just one minute behind the leader until the 116 km mark. Unfortunately, a tire puncture occurred unexpectedly between the 154 and 175 km stretch, which Baciuška described as not appearing dangerous. The challenging weather conditions, including wet mud and clay, prolonged the tire change process, costing him an estimated 4 to 5 precious minutes.

After the race, Baciuška expressed that the starting position did not benefit him, as he was surrounded by buggies, which made overtaking them in straights difficult while they regained speed in turns. He also highlighted the difficulty of driving due to extremely wet conditions, stating that he had to be cautious while navigating the slippery roads in the mountainous regions. Despite the setbacks, Baciuška emphasized the importance of perseverance and finishing the rally, indicating that he remained focused on the competition ahead.

This stage further underscored the unique challenges of rallying in Portugal, characterized by narrow and technical stretches that test the drivers' skills. Baciuška's experience illustrates the unpredictable nature of rally racing, where mechanical failures or unexpected incidents can quickly alter the standings, but also highlights the resilience required to continue fighting for victory despite adversities.