Paraguay has achieved a remarkable milestone in international motorsport, with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) naming the Rally del Paraguay as the WRC Event of the Year 2025. This prestigious World’s Best Rally Award, often referred to as the “Rally of the Year”, marks an unprecedented triumph for the South American nation in its debut on the World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar.
The award highlights Paraguay’s emergence as a formidable host in global rallying, surpassing established events and setting a new benchmark for organisational excellence.
World’s Best Rally Award presentation
The honour was granted during the FIA Annual Awards Gala in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, an event that celebrates the year’s greatest achievements in motorsport. Paraguayan President Santiago Peña accepted the trophy on behalf of the nation from FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
In his acceptance speech, President Peña expressed profound pride: “I receive this award with deep pride and with the satisfaction of seeing our country recognised at the highest levels of international motorsport. This achievement is the result of serious work, responsible planning, and collaboration between the public sector, the private sector, and the citizens, along with the tireless efforts of all the people and institutions that made the Rally of Paraguay possible.”
He emphasised that the recognition underscores Paraguay’s capability to host world-class events adhering to the strictest standards of quality, safety, and professionalism.
A historic debut triumph
The World’s Best Rally Award is given to the WRC round exhibiting superior organisational excellence, sporting impact, innovation, safety, and an exceptional spectator experience. In its inaugural edition, the Rally del Paraguay outperformed longstanding fixtures such as those in Portugal, Finland, and Japan, as well as newer contenders like Saudi Arabia. This victory establishes it as the most successful debut event in WRC history.
César Marsal, Executive Director of the rally, praised the extraordinary unity displayed: “This recognition belongs to everyone. Paraguay demonstrated that, when it works together, there are no limits.”
The event’s triumph is quantified by impressive statistics:
- Economic impact: US$133 million;
- Attendance: 210,000 spectators over four days;
- Global reach: Broadcast in 106 countries;
- Infrastructure upgrades: Improvements to roads, lighting, energy, and health services;
- Fan passion: Drivers and teams hailed the Paraguayan crowds as “the most passionate on the calendar“.
Looking ahead
Executive Director Marsal revealed plans for an even grander 2026 edition, featuring new stages, a nighttime Super Special Stage, enhancements to the Service Park, and additional safe viewing areas for spectators. The next rally is scheduled for 27-30 August.
