Central European Rally 2025: Compact, Exciting, and Fan-Focused
The Central European Rally 2025 is gearing up for its third edition, set to take place from October 16 to 19, 2025, with ambitious plans to deliver a more streamlined and engaging experience for participants and spectators alike. Following the dust of the 2024 event, which enthralled motorsport fans across Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic, preparations for 2025 are already in full swing.
A Return to Passau
The epicenter of the rally will once again be the service park at the Passau Exhibition Center in Germany, a location that has proven its logistical and strategic advantages in previous years. This marks a return to Passau after a brief stint in Bad Griesbach, though the latter’s excellent infrastructure, particularly its spa hotels, will continue to play a key role for teams and organizers.
However, what sets the 2025 edition apart is the decision to significantly shorten the liaison stages, a move designed to make the event more compact and accessible for drivers, teams, and fans.
A Rally for Everyone
“The different characteristics of the stages in Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic have always been a highlight,” noted Tomáš Kunc, Managing Director of CER Event GmbH. “Our aim is to maintain this diversity while delivering a more concise format that meets the expectations of everyone involved—drivers, teams, and especially the fans.”
Discussions are already underway to enhance the Thursday show start and the Super Special Stage in Prague, both key attractions of the event. In addition, the possibility of merging the currently separate award ceremonies into a single, television-friendly celebration is being actively explored.
Supporting Drivers and Teams
The revised format is expected to be particularly appealing to private teams, as it promises fewer total kilometers and reduced accommodation requirements, effectively lowering participation costs. Local drivers and teams from Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic are set to receive additional support to encourage their participation. Talks with national motorsport associations are already in progress to facilitate this.
Spotlight on Junior Drivers
For the first time, the Central European Rally will host the final round of the FIA Junior World Rally Championship. This addition brings the sport’s most promising young talents into the spotlight, alongside the seasoned professionals of the WRC. Among these emerging stars could be Claire Schönborn, a German driver identified during the 2024 “Beyond Rally” talent program.
Enhanced Experience for Fans
Organizers are also focusing on improving the fan experience. A new digital ticketing system will simplify the process for spectators, offering an alternative to traditional postal or regional pre-sale options. Meanwhile, the rally’s transportation and traffic management systems, which saw notable improvements in 2024, will be further optimized. The introduction of shuttle buses significantly reduced traffic congestion and the event’s carbon footprint last year, a trend the organizers are keen to continue. The ADAC Commuter Network app, which encourages carpooling, will remain a cornerstone of these eco-friendly efforts.
A Global Motorsport Spectacle
The Central European Rally 2025 is poised to be a landmark event in the WRC calendar. By combining technical precision, logistical efficiency, and a fan-first approach, the rally promises to deliver a thrilling motorsport experience in the heart of Europe. Whether you’re a die-hard rally enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this event is not to be missed.
Stay tuned as the countdown to October 2025 begins—because the Central European Rally is more than a race; it’s a celebration of speed, skill, and the unyielding spirit of competition.
