As Paraguay prepares to host the World Rally Championship (WRC) for the very first time, authorities are coordinating one of the largest police operations. A total of 6,000 officers will be deployed across the department of Itapúa to ensure the safety of both participants, and spectators during the event, scheduled from August 28 to 31 August. 250,000 visitors are to be expected.
Security strategy for the World Rally
Around 850 of the assigned officers are local, while the remainder will be reassigned from other regions of the country. The security operation is set to begin fifteen days before the official start of the rally, and will involve strict border control, checkpoints at rally stage entrances, and reinforced protection at key locations such as airports, banks, and currency exchange offices.
Tactical units equipped with long guns will oversee strategic points, while regular police stations will receive personnel reinforcements to prevent understaffing during the event. Commissioner Florenciañez affirmed that police coverage will remain active across the department, aiming to avoid any weakening of local security services during the racing competition days.
With an estimated 250,000 visitors expected to arrive from across the globe, authorities have designed a comprehensive strategy to manage crowd control and prevent criminal activity. Entry and exit points of Encarnación, the rally’s base city, will be under constant surveillance, as will other towns forming part of the competition route.
A historic chapter for Paraguayan motorsport
Although the focus remains on safety, the broader context of this event marks a major milestone for Paraguayan motorsport. For the first time, the country joins Argentina and Chile as South American hosts of the WRC. The rally in Paraguay will consist of eleven stages covering nearly 941 kilometres, set against Itapúa’s distinctive red-soil landscape and lush vegetation.
Paraguay has been part of the South American CODASUR Rally Championship since 2010, and this inclusion in the WRC calendar elevates its international standing. Over thirty professional teams from countries including Spain, Japan, Italy, Germany, Mexico, and the United Kingdom are expected to participate.
Public access and economic expectations
Rally fans will be able to enjoy the competition free of charge in designated areas marked with green tape. While car access will be permitted until 12.00 PM on the day prior to each race, pedestrian access will be allowed up to three hours before the start of each stage.
Camping will also be permitted, provided that all security regulations are observed. Parking along the stages will incur a fee, and vehicles will only be authorised to leave once the event has concluded and the second sweep car has passed. Paid premium zones will also be available to the public.
Organisers expect the rally to inject between US$80 and 100 million into the local economy, with sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and retail likely to benefit the most.
As the countdown begins, Paraguay not only prepares for an international sporting celebration, but also showcases its commitment to public safety and organisational capacity on the world stage.
For more information check WRC Rally of Paraguay on instagram or WRC Rally of Paraguay on the official website.
