Organisers of Rally Scotland coming to Aberdeen and the North-east next year have promised it will be a memorable event for the thousands of visitors to the area along with local race fans.
The event will be the first time a full World Rally Championship round will be staged in Scotland and will also be shown live on the BBC showcasing the area to the world, the Council’s Finance and Resources Committee was told yesterday (4 November 2026).
Committee convener Councillor Alex McLellan said: “The World Rally Championship coming to Aberdeen and the North-east will showcase our city to a global audience.
“We will be ready to give motorsport fans from around the world a warm Scottish welcome, and showcase the scenery and history of our city and region.
“Aberdeen City Council, and other partners, continue to work with in partnership with Motorsport UK to ensure Rally Scotland will be a huge success."
Hugh Chambers, CEO of Motorsport UK, the organiser of Rally Scotland, said: “Confirming 28 September to 3 October 2027 is a major step towards bringing the World Rally Championship back to the UK, and for the first time, staging a full WRC round in Scotland.
“Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have everything needed for a memorable rally - outstanding gravel roads, a passionate rally community, and a region ready to welcome the world.
“This is a huge opportunity to showcase north-east Scotland to a global audience, attract thousands of visitors and deliver lasting benefits for local communities and businesses. We want to create an event the whole region can be proud of.”
A report on the event, which was agreed at committee today, said Rally Scotland will be headquartered at The Event Complex Aberdeen, with Rally HQ and the Service Park based at P&J Live.
The competition will take place on closed forest gravel roads across the North-east and there will also be a fan-facing city component. Detailed scope, location, and delivery arrangements are currently being developed with partners.
The event will be Scotland's first full WRC round, bringing the championship back to the UK for the first time since 2019.
The timing of the championship's return is particularly significant, following Elfyn Evans becoming Britain's first WRC Drivers' Champion in 25 years. Rally Scotland will give British fans the opportunity to welcome and support a home world champion when the series returns to the UK.