The city of Umeå will once again host the WRC’s winter event in mid-February. This year, the rally will feature an entirely new shakedown stage located right on the city’s doorstep.
The stage utilizes the promenade along the Ume River. This decision sparked a debate last autumn, drawing criticism and outright opposition from local residents.
However, Umeå municipality and all landowners have now given their approval for the shakedown. The county administrative board’s confirmation is still pending, but it is expected to be just a matter of time.
Earlier this week, Umeå municipality announced that it had granted an exception to motor vehicle traffic on the pedestrian and cycling paths of the river promenade.
“Now we have all the permits we need,” Rally Sweden event director Erik Åström said with delight in an interview with Folkbladet newspaper.
Rally Sweden organizers have also been in negotiations with local Sami villages about holding stages on reindeer herding land. The county administrative board is expected to issue a simultaneous decision on all stages, including the shakedown.
Rally Sweden CEO Anna Nordkvist is thrilled that the original plan for the shakedown is moving forward.
“This is fantastic, the rally is coming even closer. We’re going to make this a great experience, allowing everyone to feel part of the rally and have excellent access to the event,” Nordkvist said.
Rally Sweden will take place from February 13 to 16.
