The big names are here, and so are the cars. Rallylegend gets underway and today, Friday 9 October, the event prepares for the start of its first stage, set for 7pm. Before the green light, the day is packed with testing, meet-and-greets with the protagonists, and events at the Rally Village.
Officially opening the event yesterday was a team of testimonials spanning different generations and disciplines: Markku Alén, Miki Biasion, Dani Sordo, Martins Sesks, Tony Cairoli, Franco Cunico and Rachele Somaschini, alongside Sammarinese co-driver Diaiana Darderi. More than 150 cars are expected to race on Mount Titano, among the main draws of an event that attracts enthusiasts from all over the world.
Taking part in the opening ceremony on behalf of the government were the Secretary of State for Internal Affairs Andrea Belluzzi, the Secretary of State for Tourism Federico Pedini Amati, and Alessandro Mancini, special secretary for the Secretariat of State for Industry and Sport. The speeches focused on the event’s significance for San Marino’s tourism and economy, as well as the work required to manage the influx of visitors.
“Rallylegend is, without doubt, the event that guarantees the Republic of San Marino the highest tourist turnout and the greatest economic spin-off,” was the assessment shared during the presentation. Officials confirmed their continued support for the organisers, thanking those responsible for ensuring the safety of competitors, spectators and the local area.
Also speaking were Cons president Christian Forcellini and organisers Paolo Valli and Vito Piarulli, who outlined the key features of the 2026 edition. Among the most anticipated novelties is the return of the Bettega Memorial.
Race management also took centre stage. Organisers unveiled a new “control room” within race direction, equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by qualified personnel. The operation is run in collaboration with local institutions, the gendarmerie, civil police and civil protection. Race director Mauro Zambelli explained the technical and logistical aspects of the rally.
Yesterday’s programme included scrutineering and route reconnaissance by the crews, followed by the Drivers’ Parade. The evening’s schedule also featured the Sprint Legend Race, the night-time special stage through the roundabouts, offering the first glimpse of the cars in action.
Today the programme continues on the “I Laghi” track with the shakedown, the final round of car testing before the race proper. At the Rally Village, the schedule includes the Sprint Legend Race awards ceremony, the presentation of crews on the start podium, and autograph sessions at the main sponsors’ stands.
Also on the agenda are the walkabout through the start park and the Munari Tribute, dedicated to one of the great names in rally history. Then, at 7pm, the first stage gets the green light: Rallylegend moves from presentations to racing.
