Spa Rally Regional rally regulars get their chance to shine at a national finale

Looking at the entry list for the 2025 Spa Rally, you’ll find all the elements that make the Belgian Rally Championship exciting: cars from the RC2, RC3, RC4, RC5, RC6, and RGT classes, plus the always impressive Historic BRC and Youngtimer BRC cars.

But following in their wake are the competitors from the NAT1, NAT2, and NAT3 categories, who also deserve the attention of fans and followers. More often than not, these are drivers who compete primarily at the regional level and are looking to finish the season on a high note by competing in the same prestigious event where the leading drivers of national rallying are at the start.

While the cars at this level of competition are generally less ‘modern’ and somewhat more modest than those in the top categories, don't be surprised if the experience and speed of some drivers result in them finishing in the top 30 overall, or perhaps even higher.

These ‘regional’ drivers – in the most respectful sense of the word – include drivers like Jean-Michel Dumont (Ford Fiesta R200), Antoine Luxen (Renault Clio), Jérôme Colin (Renault Clio), Olivier Leroy (Renault Clio), Jonathan Remilly (Renault Clio), Jean-Marc Henrard (Citroën Saxo), Geoffrey Horward (Renault Clio), Jimmy Grommen (Opel Adam), Michael Pirnay (Renault Clio), Luck Cravillon (Peugeot 106), and many more. And of course, also Thibaut Wauthier (BMW E30), who has a slightly more powerful car at his disposal.

So, a tip for Spa Rally spectators: don't hesitate to linger a bit longer along the special stages to enjoy the spectacle of these ‘regional’ drivers, because they often pull out all the stops!