WRC is Riga-bound for Tet Rally Latvia super special

After its long-time success within the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC), this summer will mark the first time in history that Latvia hosts a round of the WRC. The high-speed gravel event, which forms round eight of 13, promises thrills and adrenaline from 18 - 21 July.

Event promoter RA Events has unveiled plans for a thrilling 10.80-kilometre super special stage to open the action in Riga, Latvia’s vibrant capital, at the Biķernieki Circuit on Thursday 18 July. Adding to the excitement, a fan zone in the heart of the city’s Dome Square will ensure enthusiasts can immerse themselves fully in the rally atmosphere throughout the week.

Riga joins the ranks of other capital cities including Nairobi (Kenya) and Zagreb (Croatia) in hosting a competitive stage of the WRC this year.

“I am immensely proud that the start is taking place right here in Riga,“ said Riga Mayor Vilnis Ķirsis. ”I think this will be one of the biggest events of this summer, although there are many big events planned in Riga this year and in the coming years.

"This summer, we will have a special fan zone at Dome Square, where fans will be able to not only watch the Riga special stage, but also follow all the events of the Latvian WRC round over the weekend. My philosophy about the capital city is that it needs such large-scale events, so we are also working on various such major events.

“It is the city’s task to make life interesting, attract tourists who enjoy the hospitality services, and this is also what contributes to our economy,” he added.

Further in-depth route information for Tet Rally Latvia will be revealed during the forthcoming weeks, but the service park will be based in the coastal city of Liepāja with stages taking place across the Tukums, Talsi, Kuldīga and Dienvidkurzeme regions.