Spa Rally Spa Rally: an intense Saturday ahead

Although the Spa Rally traditionally begins on Friday with the Shakedown and the Qualifying Stage – following the same route as in previous years, between Winanplanche and the heights surrounding Spa – the competition truly gets underway on Saturday. Four different special stages make up the packed schedule for Leg 1: two are run twice each, while the other two are run three times each.

Spanning 9.25 kilometres, Fays Show (SS1, SS5, SS9) once again kicks off with a highly popular spectator section, where the cars pass by the crowd three separate times! Compared to previous editions, however, this special stage has been shortened by a few kilometres. There is a good reason for this: certain sections from the final part can now be incorporated into the stages held on Sunday! The stage finish for Fays Show is now located in Oneux. BRC (Belgian Rally Championship) competitors will tackle this stage three times, while the Spa Rally Classic (VHRS) teams will do so twice.

Theux (9.35 km; SS2, SS6, SS10) also features three runs for the BRC field. A new gravel section through the forest adds an extra layer of intensity for the competitors. The remainder of the stage is well-known and highly regarded, featuring highlights such as the impressive "La Machine" descent, with the finish line situated near the Theux cemetery.

Following these two stages, the competitors head back to the podium in the centre of Spa – a reminder that there is always something to see and experience in the heart of this famous city.

The day’s two other special stages will each be run twice by all competitors. First up is Trois-Ponts (14.69 km, SS3-SS7), which remains virtually identical to last year’s version, featuring two passes through Basse-Bodeux. Notable changes include a new starting point and the addition of a stretch of fine gravel road. The finish is located in Brume – in short, a classic that has kept pace with the times.

Last but not least is Stavelot-Coo (15.08 km, SS4-SS8), which links the Coo waterfalls to Rivage, the gateway to the Spa-Francorchamps Circuit. The route includes a gravel section in Amermont. This special stage was first introduced in 2022 and will undoubtedly stir up fond memories for some.

With a programme like this, there is no doubt that the 2026 Spa Rally will attract plenty of rally fans, all in search of authentic spectacle.

However, the event is far from over on Saturday evening – both for the BRC competitors and those participating in the regularity category.