In San Marino, the debate over Rallylegend has already kicked off on social media. The day after the event, posts and comments reveal divided opinions: some see the rally as a valuable resource for the country, while others complain about the disruption and disrespectful behaviour shown by parts of the audience. Some have also raised the issue of security, calling for it to be factored into the budget for the edition that has just concluded.
The discussion centres on the relationship between the event and local residents. Alongside the criticism is a sense of frustration among those who feel they bear the consequences of the event without reaping any benefits for their own businesses. This has sparked debate over revenues and how they are distributed, with some arguing that the gains mainly go to operators who work directly with the enthusiasts who flock to Titano.
Those defending Rallylegend reject this interpretation. The economic spillover, they argue, extends well beyond the takings of hotels, bars and restaurants. Among the examples raised in the discussion are the fuel purchases made by visitors, which generate revenue for public coffers. The argument is that part of this spending can translate into resources for services benefiting the whole community.
There is also discussion of the knock-on effect — the impact those earnings can have on other businesses. One example given is that of a restaurant owner who, after a busier-than-usual period during the event, decides to make a purchase at a local shop. According to this view, even those who do not sell directly to rally spectators can still benefit, albeit in a less immediate and visible way.
Ultimately, the debate also extends to attitudes toward the event itself. Some consider the complaints justified, while others see them as part of a broader tendency to criticise any initiative. Spectator behaviour remains one of the main points of friction, alongside security concerns and the perceived gap between those who profit from the event and those who mainly experience its drawbacks.
