Asunción, Agencia IP.- Itapúa department is preparing to make history in 2025 with the first World Rally Championship on its iconic red soil. «We are working to ensure Paraguay shines with this global event,» stated President Santiago Peña.
National, departmental, and sports authorities are working hard to create an environment where spectators can safely experience the excitement of the race. Strict security measures are being implemented throughout the event, with particular attention to traffic management and access to observation points.
«Paraguay is getting ready for the grand WRC celebration on Guarani soil! We are working to ensure Paraguay shines with this global event!» President Santiago Peña emphasized this in an inspiring video on his social media.
Drivers call for public safety cooperation
«This event will mark a turning point in the history of Itapúa. We are the department with the greatest cultural diversity in Paraguay. The World Rally will allow us to showcase our natural, historical, and cultural wealth and the legacy of over 22 nationalities that coexist in this region. Itapúa is ready to welcome the world, and we will do so by taking care of our people and visitors,» highlighted Itapúa Governor Javier Pereira in an interview.
Several prominent drivers have called for responsibility in line with the focus on safety. Alejandro Galanti, driver for Toyota Gazoo Racing and champion of the 2024 Chaco Rally, stated, «Just as we prepare and take care of ourselves during races, you should also take care of yourselves, follow safety regulations to show that we are ready to host the World Rally Championship.»
Blas Zapag, driver for Copetrol Rally, said, «The World Rally is an event we never imagined (in Paraguay). I urge everyone to know that this event could fall apart if we do not respect the rules. It’s an opportunity we cannot miss, and the only detail to remember is to respect the rules during the day, and you will see the best show for those of us who love the world.»
Preparations underway: Infrastructure, safety, and hospitality
With expectations of receiving around 400,000 visitors during the event, local authorities are intensifying training and making necessary improvements to meet the standards of an event of this magnitude. This includes preparing the competition routes and access routes so fans can enjoy the race without setbacks, as highlighted in Peña’s video.
Itapúa is noted for its accessibility. It is a strategic point that easily connects with neighboring countries like Brazil and Argentina, both by land and air. Additionally, the region offers a broad range of services, with a strong hotel infrastructure and diverse gastronomy reflecting the department’s multicultural character.
A unique natural setting: The red soil as the protagonist
One of the most exciting aspects of the upcoming World Rally Championship in Itapúa is the terrain on which the competition will occur. It will be the first time in history that a World Rally Championship is run on the region’s characteristic red soil, promising a unique challenge for drivers and an unmatched visual experience for spectators. Combining this soil with natural elements like water, jungle, and green vegetation will provide an impressive backdrop for competitors and the public.
Furthermore, the event is expected to leave a significant legacy regarding tourism promotion and economic development. The media exposure Itapúa will receive, with live broadcasts to over 240 countries, will be an unparalleled opportunity to place the department on the global map, not only as a tourist destination but also as an attractive location for future investments.
Test Event WRC 2025
The Petrobras Rally of Paraguay 2024, part of the «Test Event WRC 2025,» already has an official schedule. It will be the fifth round of the National Rally Championship, now included in the 2025 WR calendar, and will take place from September 19 to 21 in the department of Itapúa. The event will feature representatives from the International Automobile Federation (FIA), who will supervise and evaluate the entire development with a view to the World Rally Championship 2025.
La entrada Santiago Peña celebrates preparations for the Rally World Championship se publicó primero en .::Agencia IP::..