Test event for potential USA WRC round revealed

America's newest rally will feature on the American Rally Association calendar this year

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Tennessee Rally USA has made another step towards World Rally Championship inclusion with details of its June 2024 event.

Run out of Chattanooga, the rally was confirmed as a non-championship round of America’s premier series, American Rally Association on Wednesday.

While ARA inclusion is vital for establishing the event among the American rally community, Tennessee Rally USA’s sights are set on the WRC. Following an initial demonstration event attended by WRC officials last year, June will offer further insight into how an American world championship qualifier will work.

As previously revealed on DirtFish, the aim is to return America to the WRC in March 2026.

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Chattanooga, Tennesse would host the service park if the rally gains a WRC calendar slot

Offering 118 competitive miles across eight stages in Polk County, two of which will be asphalt spectator stages downtown in the city.
ARA competition director Preston Osborn said: “We are pleased to have this new organizing group join our series and bring back some classic rally stages.

“With eyes to the future we are excited to be partnering with Tennessee Rally USA to grow the sport in the region.”

In announcing the first rally back in Chattanooga for 20 years, the organizers’ statement said: “Highly technical lower speed gravel stages are at the core of this event with stage lengths from eight to 12 miles. In places, the flowing densely forested roads will challenge drivers and navigators with the sheer volume of turns.

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It won't just be classic cars in Chattanooga this year; rally cars will be in town too

“Our fan experience serves as a focal point for this rally. We have multiple gallery stage locations that can accommodate spectator friendly viewing. For visitors, the south, and especially Tennessee, will bring a rich mix of culture, food, friendliness, and music.

“Service, HQ, and Fan Zone will be adjacent to the TN Aquarium in downtown Chattanooga. The format will include a Friday evening Gallery Stage in Chattanooga, forest stages all day Saturday concluding with a five-mile Tarmac Gallery Stage. On Sunday there will be forest stages for half a day.”

The event runs from June 14-16.

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