Photo: Valters Pelns
Every rally has its own "hallmarks" to be proud of – such as the legendary “Col de Turini” mountain pass in Rallye Monte-Carlo, the Fafe jump in Portugal, or “Colin’s Crest” in Sweden. Over the years, Rally “Kurzeme” has also established locations that consistently provide a show for spectators and test the experience of competitors of all levels – the “Vecpils” Special Stage alone is noteworthy for the “Cherry” corner or the “Stroķacs” jump. To the delight of rally fans, these named locations will be included in the route of this year’s Rally “Kurzeme”.
However, the primary discovery will be previously unused territory in the city of Liepāja. Competitors can prepare for a particularly exciting Special Stage, while fans can look forward to an extensive spectator area with ample capacity for all.
The Special Stage will be established in the forthcoming industrial park, situated on the former site of the “Liepājas Metalurgs” factory. Last year, several new streets were constructed there, and similar to the Karosta Industrial Park, the Liepāja SEZ (Special Economic Zone) will provide rally fans and competitors with the opportunity to familiarise themselves with this territory. Newly constructed streets with a roundabout, infrastructure formerly used for the metallurgical industry, heavy braking zones, technical crests, and jumps – all in the heart of Liepāja. The rally organisers anticipate that this Special Stage will become a true adrenaline arena.
Photo Valters Pelns
“One of the most impressive Special Stages of Rally “Kurzeme 2026” is being created in an industrial territory, where crews will encounter not only a complex stage configuration and varied surfaces but also jumps and high-speed sections that will guarantee unforgettable moments for spectators,” says Rally Director Mārtiņš Zviedris. “This Special Stage combines gravel, slag, asphalt, and concrete surfaces, which will require maximum concentration from the drivers and the ability to adapt to every trajectory. For spectators, this will mean the loud 'song' of engines, cars flying over jumps, sparks on concrete, and a battle for seconds right up to the finish line. I believe this will be a Special Stage that every rally fan will want to see.”
Crews will tackle the Special Stage in the “Liepājas Metalurgs” territory twice – it will be the concluding stage on the first day of the competition, 29 May, and the very last stage of the rally, SS8, on Saturday, 30 May. Access for spectators will be via the newly constructed Inženieru Street; parking areas will be located within the Industrial Park territory, immediately adjacent to the stage.
Liepienu jump. Photo Raimonds Volonts
On the first day of the competition, 29 May, the primary attraction for spectators will, of course, be the Special Stage in the “Liepājas Metalurgs” territory; however, rally enthusiasts can also expect the impressive Liepieni jump in the first Special Stage. “This jump is already in very ‘flying’ state – there is no need to modify anything – so the sights of flying cars will be spectacular,” says Clerk of the Course Kaspars Bite.
The remaining gravel Special Stages of Rally “Kurzeme 2026” also promise intrigue for both competitors and spectators, as this year’s route includes two legendary Special Stages – Vecpils and Tebra – each completed twice.
Famous "cherry" corner in Vecpils Special Stage. Photo Raimonds Volonts
Competitors can expect the best roads available in this region, including iconic spectator points such as previous mentioned the “Cherry” corner and the “Stroķacs” jump. However, the rally organisers wish to emphasise that these points are largely sown with crops, and the area allocated for spectators will be strictly limited.
Furthermore, the Speed Festival “Kurzeme 2026” includes the Minirally “Karosta 2026”, which will offer short but exciting Special Stages in the city of Liepāja within a one-day programme.
Please be informed that entrance tickets for Rally “Kurzeme 2026” will not be available for purchase on-site; they can be purchased now via the “Biļešu paradīze” website.