Rally Estonia Makes Major Change This Year

Rally Estonia, the crown jewel of Estonian motorsport and a key fixture on the World Rally Championship calendar, is set to undergo a significant transformation this year. The event will be streamlined into a more compact format, fitting within a 50-hour timeframe. This strategic shift, according to Rally Estonia's chief organizer Urmo Aava, is designed to alleviate financial pressures on the competing teams by reducing operational costs, while simultaneously ensuring that the rally remains captivating for spectators and maintains its economic benefits for the region.

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We have to consider what our partners need. We understand that teams need to save on labor costs, and we have to help them with that. For us, the economic impact comes from the spectators who come to watch the rally. That will remain the same – Thursday will become a promo day. The goal for everyone has been to reduce costs. We are a compact rally and we can do that.

Aava explained to DirtFish that the revised schedule will see the rally's shakedown stage moved to Friday morning, freeing up Thursday afternoon and evening for promotional activities. This adjustment acknowledges the need for teams to economize on labor costs, a crucial factor in the current climate. "We have to consider what our partners need," Aava stated, emphasizing the collaborative approach. "We understand that teams need to save on labor costs, and we have to help them with that. For us, the economic impact comes from the spectators who come to watch the rally. That will remain the same – Thursday will become a promo day. The goal for everyone has been to reduce costs. We are a compact rally and we can do that."

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This is still planned. But for that, we have to change some special stages. Right now, we only have a one-year contract, for this season. If we want to make changes, we need a longer-term contract. We are very much looking forward to these discussions.

While the competitive route will largely mirror previous years, the condensed schedule offers flexibility for competitors. Teams can opt to arrive earlier for reconnaissance or choose to conduct their recce and pace note preparation later in the week, closer to the event's start. Looking ahead, Rally Estonia harbors ambitions of introducing a record-breaking jump, potentially spanning nearly 100 meters. However, this ambitious plan requires a longer-term contract with the WRC, which is currently secured only for the current season. Aava is optimistic about the prospect, noting that detailed calculations are underway with scientists to ensure safety and feasibility, aiming to create an iconic moment that could draw fans from across the globe.

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If it really happens and the cars can actually jump 100 meters, it could become something that rally fans would come to watch not only during Rally Estonia but also throughout the rest of the year. The interest from fans in this is very high.