Introduction: A Landmark Edition for a Legendary Event
The 2025 Ardeca Ypres Rally marks a significant milestone as it celebrates its 60th edition, cementing its place as one of the most revered events on the European rallying calendar. With a rich history and a reputation for challenging tarmac stages, Ypres has long been a proving ground for both established stars and emerging talents. This year, the rally not only features as a key round of the Belgian Rally Championship (BRC) in both Division 1 and Division 2, but also welcomes back the FIA European Historic Rally Championship (EHRC) as a headline attraction. The event is set to unfold across the weekend of 27–28 June, with the service park and start/finish podium returning to the heart of Ieper (Ypres), ensuring the unique atmosphere that has made this rally a favourite among competitors and fans alike.
The 2025 Ypres Rally: Structure and Significance
A Triple Header: Modern, Historic, and Accessible Rallying
The 2025 Ardeca Ypres Rally stands out for offering three distinct competitions within a single event. Division 1 of the BRC is the premier category, featuring the ‘full Ypres experience’ for top-tier drivers and teams. The rally kicks off with a traditional shakedown in Nieuwkerke, followed by two loops of four stages on Friday evening—Reninge, Vleteren, Westouter, and Mesen/Wijtschate—covering 90 km against the clock. On Saturday, competitors tackle a further 10 special stages, with Kemmelberg and Dikkebus each run three times, and Watou and Zillebeke twice. In total, Division 1 drivers will contest 18 stages and 225 km of competitive action
Division 2, designed to be more budget-friendly and accessible, is held exclusively on Saturday. Competitors in this category tackle eight stages—Kemmelberg, Dikkebus, Watou, and Zillebeke, each run twice—totalling 110 km. This format allows local drivers and privateers to realise their dream of competing in this iconic event without the financial burden of a full Division 1 campaign
Adding to the spectacle, the Ypres Historic Rally returns as a standalone event for the first time since 2022, counting towards the FIA European Historic Rally Championship. Historic competitors will enjoy a bespoke schedule, likely featuring two stages on Friday evening and two loops of four stages on Saturday, amounting to more than 130 km of competition. This blend of modern and historic rallying ensures a festival atmosphere throughout the weekend
The Stages: A Unique Challenge
The Ypres Rally is renowned for its technical, narrow tarmac roads, often lined with ditches and deceptive corners that demand precision and bravery. The Kemmelberg, in particular, is a legendary stage, known for its steep climbs, tight hairpins, and enthusiastic crowds. The combination of fast, flowing sections and technical challenges makes Ypres a true test of driver skill and car set-up
The Entry List: A Who’s Who of Rallying
International and Local Stars Converge
The 2025 Ypres Rally has attracted a stellar entry list, blending established international stars with the cream of Belgian rallying talent5. Stéphane Lefebvre, last year’s winner, returns to defend his crown, but this time in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally2, having switched from Hyundai. Lefebvre is widely regarded as one of the fastest drivers on tarmac, and his local knowledge and recent form (including a victory at Rallye Le Touquet) make him a firm favourite
Another notable debutant is Dani Sordo, the Spanish rally legend, who will make his first Ypres appearance in a brand-new Porsche 992 Rally GT. Sordo’s vast experience and adaptability will be put to the test on the unforgiving Ypres roads, and his presence adds significant prestige to the event
Hayden Paddon, the New Zealander and former WRC driver, is also on the entry list. Paddon returns to Ypres after a crash in 2013, eager to settle unfinished business. He will pilot a Hyundai i20 N Rally2, and his aggressive driving style is sure to entertain the crowds
Local Heroes and Rising Stars
The rally is a showcase for Belgian talent, with Cédric Cherain, Vincent Verschueren, and the legendary Patrick Snijers all confirmed to start. Freddy Loix, the most successful driver in Ypres Rally history with 11 wins, is back for his 26th start. Now 54, Loix remains a formidable competitor, as demonstrated by his recent victory at Rally van Wervik.
In the Historic category, all eyes will be on Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala, who continues his European Historic Rally Championship campaign in a Toyota Celica ST185. Latvala’s presence in the Historic event is a major draw, and his battle with local hero Bruno Thiry—who returns in a Subaru Impreza 555—promises to be a highlight.
Jos Verstappen, the former Formula 1 driver, is also on the entry list. Verstappen has been dominating the Belgian rally scene in 2025, with three wins from three starts. Guided by co-driver Renaud Jamoul, he is determined to make an impact at Ypres after previous attempts ended in disappointment
Technical and Sporting Innovations
Accessibility and Sustainability
The organisers have made concerted efforts to make the Ypres Rally more accessible. The introduction of day licences for Division 2 (costing just €90) and the option for Division 1 competitors to use a one-day licence (€115) have lowered the barriers to entry for privateers and newcomers. Additionally, the rally has embraced sustainability initiatives, with a focus on reducing its environmental footprint and promoting responsible spectator behaviour
Championship Implications
As the fourth round of the Division 1 Belgian Rally Championship, the Ypres Rally is a crucial event for title contenders. Points are awarded for both overall and class positions, with the final stage of each Division 1 event designated as a ‘power stage’, offering bonus points to the fastest drivers. Division 2 competitors, while unable to score points in RC2 or RGT cars, can still enjoy the thrill of competing on the same stages as their Division 1 counterparts.
The Historic event, as part of the FIA European Historic Rally Championship, is also highly competitive, with a mix of seasoned professionals and enthusiastic amateurs vying for honours. The return of the EHRC to Ypres after several years is a major boost for the event and for historic rallying in Europe
The Ypres Experience: More Than Just a Rally
A Festival of Motorsport
The Ypres Rally is more than just a competition; it is a festival of motorsport that brings the local community together. The service park in the centre of Ypres is open to the public, allowing fans to get up close to the cars and teams. The start and finish podium, shared by all three competitions, creates a focal point for celebrations and fan engagement
Spectator Highlights
For spectators, the rally offers a unique opportunity to witness world-class rallying in a picturesque setting. The Kemmelberg stage, in particular, is a must-see, with its dramatic elevation changes and passionate crowds. The proximity of the stages to the town centre makes it easy for fans to experience multiple stages in a single day
Conclusion: A Weekend to Remember
The 2025 Ardeca Ypres Rally promises to be one of the highlights of the European rallying season. With its triple-header format, world-class entry list, and festival atmosphere, it offers something for everyone—from die-hard rally fans to casual spectators. The return of the FIA European Historic Rally Championship adds an extra layer of excitement, while the continued focus on accessibility and sustainability ensures that the event remains relevant and inclusive
Whether you are drawn by the prospect of seeing modern rally stars in action, reliving the golden era of rallying in the Historic event, or simply soaking up the unique atmosphere in Ieper, the 2025 Ypres Rally is an unmissable occasion. As the cars roar through the Flemish countryside, the spirit of competition and camaraderie will be palpable, making this 60th edition a true celebration of rallying heritage and innovation.
