Rallylegend 2025 is set to deliver another unforgettable weekend of rallying action when it gets underway in the Republic of San Marino from October 2–5. Now in its 23rd year, the event continues to grow, drawing star drivers, legendary cars and thousands of fans from across Europe and beyond.
The curtain will rise on Thursday, October 2, with the traditional shakedown at midday, before the first competitive action of the weekend — the high-octane Sprint Legend Race at 8.30pm. This short, three-kilometre blast will not only entertain fans but also provide the quickest drivers with a valuable time bonus ahead of the main rally.
The rally proper begins on Friday evening, October 3, in true old-school fashion with a pair of night stages. Crews will tackle Chiesanuova and San Marino, before regrouping in the historic centre of San Marino for the ceremonial “Drivers’ Dinner.” The evening format is expected to create a special atmosphere under the lights, recalling the classic night-time tests of rallying’s past.
Saturday, October 4, brings the biggest day of competition, beginning at 1.00pm. Five special stages are planned — two loops each of Piandavello and La Casa, along with a lap of the specially designed Legend stage. The day will conclude with the traditional “Drivers’ Party” in Rally Village, the bustling hub of the weekend.
The final day, Sunday, October 5, begins at 10.30am with two runs over a revised version of Le Tane, as well as another lap of The Legend. Festivities will wrap up with the finish podium and prize-giving in Rally Village at around 3.00pm.
In addition to the competitive action, countless side events and displays will take place across Rally Village. Fans can look forward to autograph sessions with some of the sport’s biggest names, live music, car parades and special exhibitions — including celebrations of the 40th anniversary of the Lancia Delta S4 and the 30th anniversary of Colin McRae’s 1995 World Championship win.
Rallylegend 2025 will cater for all types of rally machinery, with categories for Historic, Classic and WRC cars, as well as the non-competitive Legend Stars class that will showcase iconic cars in full flight for the fans.
As always, the event is driven by the tireless work of organisers Vito Piarulli and Paolo Valli, whose efforts ensure Rallylegend remains one of the highlights of the international rally calendar.
Kerry Crews Among the Star Attractions
This year’s Rallylegend will have a strong Kerry connection. Rob Duggan and John McCarthy, fresh from winning the National section of the 2025 Rally of the Lakes, will line up in their Ford Escort Mk2. They will be joined by Rally Stack and his brother Gene, who are also competing in an Escort Mk2. Stack’s entry is particularly significant as it coincides with Kerry Motor Club’s 50th anniversary of the Circuit of Kerry Rally and his own 50th birthday, milestones the club decided to mark by supporting his participation in San Marino.
In addition, local co-driver Ciara Duggan will partner Cork’s Neil Phelan in another Escort, further strengthening the Kerry presence.
Over 200 supporters are expected to travel from Kerry to cheer on the crews, ensuring a lively atmosphere as the green-and-gold contingent makes its mark on one of Europe’s biggest rally festivals.
Kerry Motorsport News 