New classics class for 2026 NZRC
The Brian Green Property Group New Zealand Rally Championship will feature a new class in 2026 with the Classics Championship confirmed by MotorSport New Zealand.
Based on the Otago Rally technical regulations that have been successfully used for a number of years, the class will see a dedicated space for classic 2WD rally cars to compete against each other and will hopefully see a number of new cars enter the championship this year.
It will be officially known as Category 6 and the championship will be contested across all six rounds of the 2026 championship, while also being classified as part of the overall championship.
The Historic 2WD class (Category 4) will remain as it has, with the regulations continuing to protect historic cars.
“We’ve seen the increasing difficulty associated with running genuine historic compliant vehicles and have given an avenue through the highly successful Otago Classic Rally to have the opportunity to have more exciting cars within the championship that still celebrates the essence of the era,” championship coordinator Blair Bartels said.
“We know there is a lot of interest in this class and hopefully that will translate to a good field of entrants.
“We look forward to welcoming this class to our existing championship categories in what is shaping as a big year for the championship.”
MotorSport New Zealand President, Deborah Day, said the introduction of the Classic Rally Championship both honours the sport’s past and strengthens its future.
“The introduction of Category 6 recognises the strong and passionate contingent of classic competitors who are such an important part of rallying in New Zealand,” said Day.
“Classic rallying has long been a cornerstone of our sport, and it is fantastic to now provide a dedicated national championship platform for these iconic cars and their drivers.”
The 2026 Brian Green Property Group New Zealand Rally Championship will be held over six rounds starting with the Otago Rally April 10-12.
Tweet
