"For the first time in the history of the rally Sarma, we will sell tickets only in advance and only on the internet. This is because the number of tickets is limited and all tickets must have a holders name and surname that we are unable to provide as usual. In addition, we do not want to allow a situation where someone comes to the rally and is forced to go home because they did not get a ticket," says Vilhelms Sniedzans, the director of the Rally Sarma.

Tickets will be available for purchase on the online ticketing platform eKase.lv in the near future. The organizer invites all spectators to read the rules before buying tickets and to follow them carefully during the rally so as not to cause problems for themselves or organizer of the rally. It should be remembered that by purchasing a ticket, the viewer agrees to all terms and conditions and is aware that it will not be possible to return, exchange or transfer the ticket to others if they are unable to attend or comply with any point of the terms.

"We are glad that by attracting knowledgeable people and streamlining processes, we can open the rally to spectators. A rally without spectators is not a rally! But I must appeal all viewers to appreciate the work we have done and to be conscientious, to follow the rules and not to cause problems for ourselves or for us. I would also like to thank the ministries and responsible authorities who understood our situation and provided all possible advice and support so that we would not have to "build the wall of Gulbene" and "to graze mushroom pickers" in the winter," says Sniedzāns.

The main differences that spectators will have to face are that the number of spectators in the spectator areas will be controlled and in the most popular areas not everyone will be allowed in. The flow of spectators and athletes must be separated, which means that entering and leaving through the start and finish stages will be prohibited. In the same time, spectators will be denied access to the service park and rally center. Spectators must note that all spectators must wear face masks during ticket control and keep a 2m distance between households in the spectator areas.

"I urge spectators to be understanding and to go to the stages in time with prepared tickets, certificates and documents, as all this will be checked at the checkpoints and every delay will only hinder other spectators. Be careful and follow the restrictions imposed by the country with us!" adds Sniedzāns.

The rules binding on spectators can be found on the websites autorally.lv and ekase.lv. More information about the Rally Sarma 2022 can be found on autorally.lv and social networks.

Ģirts Avotiņš, Rallija Sarma media officer. Photo: Dace Janova, 4rati.lv