Top drivers participating in the 2026 WRC Rally of Paraguay have taken to social media to share their enthusiasm for the country’s passionate fans and stunning scenery. The posts from the World Rally Championship stars have generated significant online buzz, showcasing the vibrant atmosphere in Itapúa ahead of the ceremonial start today.
This year’s edition of the demanding international rally, which runs from 27 to 30 August, aims to become the first carbon-neutral sporting event in Latin America. Photos and videos capturing the fervour of local supporters and the striking natural landscape, including blooming lapacho trees against blue skies, are trending widely.
World Rally Championship stars hail exceptional fan energy
Japanese driver Takamoto Katsuta, who is competing in the country for the second time, shared a video highlighting the incredible local support. “You will not be able to find this type of energy in any other place,” he wrote, adding in Guaraní, “That is why rohayhu Paraguay” (I love you, Paraguay), accompanied by a heart emoji.
Katsuta’s footage showed the large crowds that gathered on the waterfront for the opening of the fan zone, which attracted an estimated 5,000 people on its first day. “Paraguay is crazy,” the pilot added, remarking on the massive turnout.
Oliver Solberg, who won the WRC2 category here last year, also expressed his admiration. “Rally Paraguay is awesome!” the Swedish driver stated. A video shows him walking through the streets of Encarnación, warmly greeted by pedestrians, shop employees, and construction workers, with many people stopping their vehicles to take a photograph with him.
His father, legendary former WRC world champion Petter Solberg, told the media his entire family is “completely in love with Paraguay.” The elder Solberg, who is in the country to support his son and to compete in a special race for historic figures, was unequivocal in his praise. “You have the best rally in the world,” he maintained.
A more accessible and sustainable rally
During the Fan Zone opening in Encarnación, Ricardo Deggeller, Deputy General Director of the Rally of Paraguay, outlined the planned activities. The zone will feature concerts in the afternoon and will remain open until 22:00 through Saturday 29 August, and until midday on Sunday 30 August. “Last year we received approximately 45,000 people, and we believe that this year, in these five days, we will receive 60,000,” Deggeller projected.
With tickets for the grand opening ceremony on 27 August completely sold out, organisers have made arrangements for those who missed out. “The tickets are sold out, a lot of people were left wanting to be part of it,” commented Deggeller. “So, we are going to have the cars come down the ramp and travel along a section of the Service Park route, up to the roundabout on Route 1, in a free access area.”
Rodrigo Maluff, advisory minister of the Civil Cabinet of the Presidency of Paraguay, noted that this year’s event features a route designed for families visiting the city. The Los Teros Park, on the Encarnación waterfront, will host a special night stage of the WRC Rally del Paraguay 2026.
The event is scheduled for this Saturday, 29 August, starting at 18:05 It will feature world motorsport legends such as four-time champions Juha Kankkunen and Tommi Mäkinen, Paraguayan driver Héctor “Negro” Omar Risso, and Petter Solberg. This spectator-friendly night stage will cover a fast 3.1-kilometre course close to the public.
Pioneering carbon neutrality in sport
A key focus for this year’s competition is sustainability. “We already achieved the FIA’s category three rating last year for our carbon emission reduction and waste management measures,” explained Maluff. “This year, we decided that the remainder, what can no longer be reduced, will be offset with Paraguayan carbon credits.”
With this, the Rally of Paraguay 2026, according to organisers, will be the first carbon-neutral sporting event in Latin America.
Also read: The Asunción Times Ultimate Guide To Rally Week 2026.
