The WRC ueno Rally del Paraguay returns to Itapúa from 27 to 30 August, 2026, bringing four days of world-class motorsport. The city of Encarnación serves as the event’s main hub, while competitive stages cross several towns across the department. The rally marks Round 11 of the 2026 World Rally Championship, with 22 gravel stages and around 356 kilometres.
For visitors, however, the rally offers more than watching cars race through Paraguay’s famous red-earth roads. Fans can explore the Service Park, enjoy the Fan Zone and choose several spectator experiences. Therefore, if you are planning to travel to Itapúa, here is what you need to know.
When and where is the rally?
The rally begins on Thursday, 27 August, with the opening activities in Itapúa. The ceremonial start takes place that evening at the Sambadrome in Encarnación, creating the first major gathering for fans.
From Friday onwards, crews compete across stages in Cambyretá, Nueva Alborada, Bella Vista, Hohenau, Trinidad, Artigas and Encarnación. The WRC describes the stages as fast gravel roads, with changing grip and technical sections creating additional challenges.
What can fans do in Encarnación?
Encarnación’s Costanera becomes one of the main meeting points throughout Rally week. There, the Fan Zone and Service Park bring together teams, food, entertainment, sponsor activities and official merchandise.
Fan Zone access costs ₲20,000 (US$3) for access, according to the current ticket information. Visitors can also explore the Service Park and potentially meet crews between competition activities.
This year, the experience also includes a museum featuring more than 15 classic cars. A convertible parade adds another attraction for visitors interested in rally history and motorsport culture.
Where can you watch the stages?
Visitors looking for a dedicated viewing experience can choose from three Preferential Zones. The first is at Autódromo Capitán Miranda on Friday, 28 August. The second is at Hohenau on Saturday, 29 August, followed by the Ypecurú Power Stage in Encarnación on Sunday.
These areas include toilets, tribunes, giant screens, food parks, security and brand experiences. Spectators can also bring folding chairs and shade tents, while parking remains available for an additional fee.
How much do tickets cost?
Preferential Zone tickets start at ₲170,000 (approximately US$26) for general access and ₲320,000 (US$49) for tribune access. Visitors attending multiple days can choose a Weekend Pass, costing ₲459,000 (US$70) for general access or ₲864,000 (US$132) for tribune access.
Tickets for the Fan Zone, Preferential Zones and ceremonial start are available through TUTI, the event’s official ticketing platform. Prices and availability can change, so visitors should check the platform before travelling.
What makes the 2026 edition different?
The 2026 rally expands on Paraguay’s successful WRC debut in 2025. Organisers add three stages, increasing the total from 19 to 22. The event also grows from 48 crews in the 2025 edition to an expected 60 crews this year.
The international field brings major names to Paraguay, including Sébastien Ogier, Elfyn Evans, Thierry Neuville and Takamoto Katsuta. Paraguayan drivers also take centre stage, including Fau Zaldívar, Diego Domínguez, Gustavo Saba, Alejandro Galanti and Andrea Lafarja.
What should spectators remember?
Safety remains essential when watching a rally. Spectators should stay inside designated viewing areas and follow instructions from marshals and security personnel. The WRC also showcases changing road conditions, dust and deep ruts as important features of Paraguay’s gravel stages.
For international visitors, the Paraguayan government has also established immigration measures connected with the event. Accredited participants and visitors who require visas can access a dedicated online visa process.
With motorsport, tourism and entertainment across four days, the WRC ueno Rally del Paraguay offers visitors a full experience in Itapúa. Whether you follow the cars from a Preferential Zone or explore the Fan Zone, Encarnación becomes the place to experience Paraguay at full speed.
For more information, follow WRC ueno Rally del Paraguay on Instagram.
