The organisers of ‘Rally Kurzeme 2026’ invite crews to register for the 2026 event and become part of one of Latvia’s long-standing motorsport traditions. The roads of the Kurzeme region have long been known for their speed, technical corners and constantly changing surface conditions, presenting competitors with both challenges and a distinctive competitive edge, while offering spectators thrilling action.
“’Rally Kurzeme’ has never really gone away – our famous local roads have been part of rally-sprints, minirallies, as well as European and World Championship events. Still, it felt like something was missing… That’s why this year we decided to bring back, so to speak, our ‘trademark’ – ‘Rally Kurzeme’,” says Rally Director Mārtiņš Zviedris. “The organizing team is working to ensure the event is exciting and engaging for both competitors and spectators, while preserving the unique atmosphere that ‘Rally Kurzeme’ has become known for over the years.”
‘Rally Kurzeme’ is one of the oldest and most tradition-rich rally events in the Baltic states. Its official debut took place in 1965, and within a decade it grew from a small local competition into a round of the USSR Championship – the highest level of rallying in the country at the time.
Following the restoration of Latvia’s independence, ‘Rally Kurzeme’ continued its development, this time looking towards Europe. In 1997, it officially gained international rally status, approved by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), and in the early 21st century, a long-held ambition of its organisers was realised – the event was included in the European Rally Championship (ERC) calendar.
“For me, ‘Rally Kurzeme’ is more than just a photo in an album featuring the Sesks and Francis families across generations. It stands for respect, responsibility, and now also a sense of continuity – quietly passed on from my grandfather, Mārtiņš Sesks Senior, the founder of Rally ‘Kurzeme’, to me. It is a true honor to promote and support the organizers of this historic event and those who carry forward the traditions of our sport in every way I can,” says Mārtiņš Sesks.
“In 2024, I fulfilled not only my grandfather’s dream, but also the vision of his colleague Mārtiņš Bite and many others who have shaped the story of Latvian rallying – that the roads of ‘Kurzeme’ would become part of Latvia’s WRC round. At the same time, I achieved a personal milestone together with Renārs – driving a Rally1 car on the roads of ‘Kurzeme’. This is not just about nostalgia; it’s about focused, determined work to keep the name of ‘Kurzeme’ alive on the world stage. That’s why I’m genuinely excited and proud to see ‘Rally Kurzeme’ return to the Latvian Rally Championship calendar – bringing back its iconic name and, as always, a demanding and thrilling route for competitors!” he adds.
Rally ‘Kurzeme 2026’ will take place over two days – May 29 and 30. As is customary in the Latvian Rally Championship, the event will also feature competitions in several disciplines, including the traditional minirally ‘Karosta’, whose participants will compete on Saturday, 30 May.
“This year, the rally route is being designed to retain the classic character of ‘Rally Kurzeme’ roads. It will include both well-known and fast Kurzeme special stages, as well as one stage that was last used around the year 2000,” reveals Mārtiņš Zviedris. “In addition, there will be a completely new special stage that has not previously been part of the rally. It could become one of the most exciting spectator points, as it is planned to be highly visible and easily accessible for fans.”
‘Rally Kurzeme 2026’ is the 3rd round of the 2026 Latvian Rally Championship, Latvian Rallysprint Championship (RSK), and Historic Car Cup (VRK), as well as the opening round of the ‘Mārtiņš Sesks MRF Tyres Junior Challenge’.