News

Rally Sweden wants to collaborate with the entire region around Umeå.

The World Championship event, Rally Sweden, spans over 300 kilometers of special stages, involving more than 250 landowners and several Sami villages. Today, the County Administrative Board in Umeå granted approval for the rally. The planning of this year’s stages has been widely discussed in public forums and on social media, where, unfortunately, the tone has sometimes been inappropriate—an environment that Rally Sweden strongly distances itself from.

“The disgusting statements and attacks that have been made are truly upsetting. This is not something Rally Sweden supports. Having a dialogue and negotiations where both sides can present their arguments is one thing, but sitting behind a keyboard and attacking people is unacceptable,” says Anna Nordkvist, CEO of Rally Sweden.

End online hate

Both international and national motorsport communities are actively working on various projects to combat online hate and curb the negative climate often seen on social media platforms.

“It simply needs to stop. No one gains anything from making such remarks. More often than not, I see references to already incorrect sources, and the hate just grows. Our goal is for Rally Sweden to be an experience for everyone—for those who love rallying, but also for those who just think it’s exciting to see a major event come to Umeå,” says Anna Nordkvist.

Respecting culture, animals, and the environment

Rally Sweden 2025 will take place from February 13 to 16. This will be the fourth time the World Championship round is held in the region, with Umeå as the central hub.

“Rally Sweden visits Umeå and the surrounding area for about one week each year, with four actual competition days. During that week, we want to work closely with landowners and reindeer herders to ensure everything runs smoothly during the event, as well as in the planning before and the restoration of roads and other areas after the rally. Without this collaboration, it simply wouldn’t work. But above all, we must be accepted by those from whom we borrow the land,” says Erik Åström, Event Director for Rally Sweden.

Consideration for wildlife

Rally Sweden is one of Sweden’s largest recurring sporting events, attracting large crowds both at Red Barn Arena and along the forest stages.

“Rallying is an incredible sport to watch in the forest along the special stages. But it’s also important for spectators to remember that they are guests in nature. Therefore, it’s crucial not to disturb any animals you may encounter, and of course, to avoid causing any damage or litter. I sincerely ask everyone to show respect,” says Erik Åström, adding:

“I hope we can now focus on what lies ahead and that the weather holds. It promises excellent conditions for Rally Sweden 2025.”