New challenges in store at Japan's WRC finale

As well as the inclusion of the two-at-a-time super special stage at Toyota Stadium, which was a huge hit in 2023, the rally organisers have introduced further new challenges for this year’s FIA World Rally Championship finale.

The Mount Kasagi special stage in Ena City features a challenging course leading to a mountain stage centred on Mount Kasagi Motor Park. Lake Mikawako, the host of the Wolf Power Stage, has also seen a series of modifications. Cars will now run in the opposite direction compared to last year and will tackle new sections set against the backdrop of the picturesque Kumano Shrine.

Additionally, Shinshiro boasts a new format, while the Okazaki super special stage will run under the cover of darkness with a revamped layout.

Toshihiko Ota, Chairman of the FORUM8 Rally Japan Executive Committee, said: “This year’s Rally Japan, the third year of the event, will feature three additional challenging Special Stages (SS) and 15 spectator areas.

“In addition, the Super SS at Toyota Stadium, which has been held since last year, will continue to use the duel format. The theme “ENJOY RALLY JAPAN” will remain unchanged. In order to ensure that as many spectators as possible can enjoy the event, we have reduced the price of first-floor seats at Toyota Stadium to a starting price of 9,000 yen.”

Tickets for this year’s event will go on general sale from Saturday 24 August. In an effort to inspire younger generations, a new initiative allows children aged three to junior high school to spectate free of charge when accompanied by an adult. The first 10,000 children will be invited to the Toyota Stadium stage, with an additional 1,000 invited to Okazaki.

Other entertainment programs include a demonstration flight by the Air Self-Defense Force’s Blue Impulse over Toyota Stadium, freestyle motocross, and live music performances.