Rally Turkey will take place a week earlier than scheduled to facilitate additional World Rally Championship rounds.
The event will now place on 18-20 September, freeing up a possible date for a Belgian round to join the calendar, as the WRC looks to bolster a shorter schedule as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
“The date switch provides us with options if we wish to introduce further events to the 2020 calendar and we’re extremely grateful to TOSFED for its flexibility in what are challenging times for sport across the world,” commented Jona Siebel, who has taken over from Oliver Ciesla as WRC promoter managing director.
“Marmaris, a popular holiday resort in Turkey, is open for business and welcoming tourists. Competitors and fans can feel confident about travelling there again after the Coronavirus lockdown.
“The event will, of course, run with Covid-19 protocols in place. FIA and WRC Promoter guidelines will be applied to Turkey’s health laws to create a safe environment for all involved and for fans to enjoy.”
The event will now take place a fortnight after Rally Estonia, which will be the first rally back after the coronavirus pause.
Germany, Italy and Japan will follow, though it’s hoped Belgium will join.
Round | Rally | Date |
1 | Monte-Carlo | 23 – 26 January |
2 | Sweden | 13 – 16 February |
3 | Mexico | 12 – 15 March |
4 | Estonia | 4 – 6 September |
5 | Turkey | 18 – 20 September |
6 | Germany | 15 – 18 October |
7 | Italy | 29 October – 1 November |
8 | Japan | 19 – 22 November |