The picturesque Langhe region is gearing up to host the second round of the Italian Rally Championship (CIAR) from April 11th to 13th, featuring a challenging 112km route over 13 special stages. Alongside the Rally Cup of the 1st Zone, the event has attracted a robust field of 158 entrants. Giandomenico Basso currently leads the standings, with Andrea Crugnola and Simone Campedelli hot on his heels, seeking to overturn their fortunes, while Fabio Andolfi debuts in a Toyota. The Promotion category will see fierce competition, particularly from Bostjan Avbelj. Additionally, the CIAR Junior category will spotlight ten teams making their asphalt debut, and the Two-Wheel Drive category is buzzing with the highly anticipated official return of Lancia.
Event Details and Spectator Information
The 2025 Sparco Italian Rally Championship continues to stir up excitement throughout Italy. This weekend’s action shifts to the Rally Regione Piemonte, marking the second chapter of the season. From April 11th to 13th, the Langhe region will serve as a stunning backdrop for the national championship, challenging drivers over a mix of 13 special stages that span 112.80 competitive kilometers, contributing to a total route of 495.70 km.
The rally will also feature the first Zone ACI Sport Rally Cup, highlighting local talent from Piedmont and the Aosta Valley. A key highlight of the rally is the battle for the Absolute title, further enriched by other categories like Promotion, Two-Wheel Drive, and R1. The event is also notable for the participation of single-make trophies like the GR Yaris Rally Cup and Suzuki Rally Cup.
This year’s event will witness the eagerly awaited comeback of Lancia in the rally scene with the debut of the new Ypsilon Rally4 HF, setting the stage for its full competition entry at the Targa Florio.
The Cinzano Rally Team is hosting this grand spectacle, with its 19th edition based in Alba. The rally kicks off on Friday at 9:15 PM in Piazza San Paolo and concludes on Sunday from 3:45 PM in via 25 Aprile. Fans can catch live broadcasts of the event on ACI Sport TV, Sky channel 228, and other platforms, including a special coverage of the “Santo Stefano” stage on RAI Sport.
Championship Dynamics
The CIAR Sparco’s second round promises an intense clash among top contenders. Giandomenico Basso and Lorenzo Granai, fresh off a narrow victory in Ciocco, are the ones to beat. The reigning champions, Crugnola and Pietro Ometto, are eager for redemption after a challenging start to the season. Meanwhile, Campedelli and Tania Canton aim to bounce back from an early retirement at Ciocco.
Fabio Andolfi makes his first appearance in the official GR Yaris Rally2 for Toyota Gazoo Racing Italy, adding another layer of excitement to the championship. The Promotion category also highlights Bostjan Avbelj as a formidable competitor, following his strong performance in the opening round.
Junior and Two-Wheel Drive Categories
The junior drivers will tackle asphalt for the first time this season, adding intrigue to the CIAR Junior series. The Two-Wheel Drive category continues to grow, featuring a mix of seasoned competitors and newcomers eager to make their mark in the Italian Championship.
Upcoming CIAR Sparco 2025 Championship Dates
- March 21-23 | 48th Rally Il Ciocco e Valle del Serchio
- April 11-13 | 19th Rally Regione Piemonte
- May 8-10 | Targa Florio Rally
- May 29-31 | 43rd Rally Due Valli
- July 4-6 | 13th Rally Roma Capitale
- September 12-14 | Rally del Lazio
- October 17-19 | 72nd Rallye Sanremo
This exciting lineup promises to deliver thrilling rally action throughout the season, highlighting the skill and endurance of participating drivers and the breathtaking beauty of Italian landscapes.