Rally di Roma Capitale 2026: A New Era with Redesigned Route and WRC Ambitions
The 10th edition of the Rally di Roma Capitale, set to take place from July 3 to 5, 2026, is undergoing a significant transformation. This year’s event, valid as the third round of the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) and the fourth round of the Italian Absolute Rally Sparco Championship (CIAR), will feature a completely re-engineered route, new special stages, and a strategic shift in its operational hub. Organizers are also actively pursuing the rally’s inclusion in the 2027 World Rally Championship (WRC), the pinnacle of global rally competitions.
Revolutionary Route and Special Stages
For the first time, the rally will extend its reach beyond Rome into the province of Rieti, embracing the picturesque landscapes around Lake Turano. This new direction revisits roads that once hosted the historic Rally del Turano, adding a layer of heritage to the competition. The redesigned route promises a blend of speed and technical challenges, winding through historic villages and natural areas of the Rieti territory.
A total of 11 special stages, spanning 196.88 timed kilometers, will challenge participants over three days. Key new stages include:
- Vallecupola (22.50 km): A highly technical and fast uphill climb, reaching altitudes of 1,200 meters, skirting Lake Turano.
- Piana di Rascino (27.78 km): A natural ‘toboggan’ at over 1,600 meters on the Acquilente plateau, offering exceptional spectator visibility for over 2 kilometers.
- Colle di Tora – Poggio Moiano (11.58 km): Features a spectacular passage over the Posticciola dam, followed by a scenic ascent and a technical descent.
- Monastero – Monte Livata (22.21 km): A revisited classic, starting near rock-hewn tunnels and ascending dramatically towards Monte Livata.
- Canterano – Gerano (13.72 km): A breathtaking sequence of downhill hairpins, with the second pass serving as the Power Stage.
New Operational Hub and Fan Experience
The rally’s headquarters will relocate entirely to the EUR district of Rome. The Salone delle Fontane will host the Rally HQ, including race direction and the press room, while the service park (paddock) will be set up near the iconic Colosseo Quadrato (Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana). This new setup includes a dedicated Fan Zone for all ages, offering entertainment, leisure activities, and the unique opportunity to observe mechanics and drivers during service breaks.
Spectacular Start and Finish
The event will kick off on the evening of Friday, July 3, with a grand parade through Rome’s historic center, culminating in the starting ceremony at Via degli Annibaldi. This will be followed by the legendary ‘Colosseo ACI Roma’ special stage, a unique timed spectacle at the foot of the Flavian Amphitheatre, against the evocative backdrop of Colle Oppio. The grand finale on Sunday will see the awards ceremony held in the prestigious Via della Conciliazione, with St. Peter’s Basilica providing a majestic setting for the winning crews.
Event Schedule Highlights
The comprehensive program for the Rally di Roma Capitale 2026 includes:
- June 18: Press conference at Sala della Protomoteca.
- June 30: Gala evening in Rome.
- July 1: Sporting checks at Salone delle Fontane.
- July 2: Technical checks, Road Safety Convention, car exhibition, autograph sessions, and the Fan Zone opening at EUR.
- July 3: Shakedown, starting ceremony, Colosseo special stage, and VIP lounge.
- July 4: VIP lounge on the route and Fan Zone activation.
- July 5: VIP lounge on the route and awards ceremony in Via della Conciliazione.
Organized by Motorsport Italia
The Rally di Roma Capitale is organized by Motorsport Italia, led by Max Rendina. Since its first European edition in 2017, Rendina’s team has consistently developed the event, establishing it as a prestigious fixture in both the FIA European Rally Championship and the Italian Absolute Rally Championship.
Source: https://www.newsauto.it/notizie/rally-di-roma-capitale-prove-speciali-percorso-turano-2026-624225/
