The WRC Rally del Paraguay has received the UN And FIA Sustainability Award, a significant international distinction in Madrid, Spain. The event was honoured during the first edition of the Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Sports Tourism. This prestigious initiative is a joint collaboration between UN Tourism and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
Justo Pastor Apodaca Paredes, the Ambassador of Paraguay in Spain, accepted the award on behalf of the nation. He described the recognition as an “exceptional honour” for the country. Furthermore, Apodaca Paredes highlighted the timing of the award, noting it arrives as the rally’s international profile continues to grow, following its recent designation as the best rally in the world for 2025.
A strategic platform for development
The ambassador conveyed the pride felt by the Paraguayan government and the event organisers, after receiving the UN And FIA Sustainability Award. He emphasised the broader impact of the rally beyond the sport itself. In a formal statement, Apodaca Paredes articulated the project’s strategic importance.
“We receive this distinction with deep pride on behalf of the Government of Paraguay, the Country Brand, and the Local Organising Committee of the WRC. This project demonstrates how sport can become a strategic platform to promote tourism, innovation, and territorial development,” he stated.
According to Apodaca Paredes, this international recognition firmly positions Paraguay as an emerging global destination for sports tourism. In addition, it significantly strengthens the visibility of the Marca País Paraguay, or the Paraguay Country Brand. This national branding initiative is founded on core values including sustainability, authenticity, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
Future plans for the 2026 edition
Looking ahead, the ambassador provided details on the ambitious plans for the 2026 edition of the rally. He announced that the event will see a much larger deployment of infrastructure, advanced technology, and sustainable innovation. This will be supported by strong institutional coordination and a clear international focus to elevate the event’s global standing.
The organisers anticipate that the competition will attract thousands of international visitors, elite motorsport teams, and dedicated fans from around the world. Consequently, this influx is expected to solidify Paraguay’s reputation as a premier host for world-class sporting competitions. Apodaca Paredes stressed that the rally’s value extends far beyond the competition circuit.
“The rally is not just a motor competition; it is an opportunity to show the world the warmth of our people, the richness of our landscapes, and the tourism potential of each region.”
