Evans ran off the road on stage seven (Mortagua, 18.15km) while occupying sixth position following a challenging day opening the road.
A drought breaking victory in Croatia last month meant the Welshman headed to Portugal tied at the top of the championship standings with part-time Toyota team-mate Sebastien Ogier, who isn’t competing in Portugal this weekend.
Evans had been struggling with the balance of GR Yaris throughout the day having faced the worst of the road conditions.
Footage has now revealed that Evans went off the road during stage seven at speed resulting in a heavy collision into trees. The GR Yaris sustained heavy damage in the impact which triggered a small fire that was quickly extinguished.
Evans and co-driver Scott Martin emerged from the incident unscathed and have since undergone medical checks.
Source: Autosport