2026 SARRC Calendar: Full South African Rally-Raid Championship Schedule
The 2026 SARRC calendar has been confirmed, setting the stage for another punishing and spectacular season of off-road motorsport in South Africa. From deep sand and rocky mountain passes to wide-open bushveld terrain, the South African Rally-Raid Championship once again promises endurance, strategy, and mechanical survival at the highest level.
With six rounds spread across the country, the 2026 season challenges crews, vehicles, and teams to adapt to radically different conditions as the championship unfolds.
What is the SARRC?
The South African Rally-Raid Championship (SARRC) is the country’s premier long-distance off-road racing series. It features a mix of production-based vehicles, purpose-built rally-raid cars, and motorcycles competing over demanding multi-day stages.
Unlike short-format off-road events, rally-raid racing places equal emphasis on navigation, reliability, and teamwork. Crews must manage fatigue, vehicle wear, and terrain changes while racing against both the clock and the environment.
2026 SARRC Calendar
The 2026 SARRC calendar spans six rounds across five provinces, ensuring a diverse and technically demanding championship. Each round offers its own character, from fast desert sections to slow, technical navigation-heavy stages.
Below is the confirmed racing schedule for the 2026 season.
2026 SARRC Racing Schedule
| Round | Dates | Location | Province |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | 6–7 March 2026 | Stella | North West |
| Round 2 | 8–10 May 2026 | Outeniqua | Western Cape |
| Round 3 | 19–20 June 2026 | Parys | Free State |
| Round 4 | 24–25 July 2026 | Bronkhorstspruit | Gauteng |
| Round 5 | 9–10 October 2026 | Vryheid | KwaZulu-Natal |
| Round 6 | 13–14 November 2026 | Thabazimbi | Limpopo |
What to Expect in 2026
The 2026 SARRC calendar is expected to continue the trend toward longer stages, tougher navigation, and increased mechanical strain on vehicles. Teams will need to balance outright speed with reliability, especially during back-to-back racing weekends later in the year.
Fans can expect close battles across multiple classes, with factory-supported entries and privateer teams pushing each other throughout the championship. Weather conditions, particularly during the winter rounds, could also play a decisive role.
How to Watch the SARRC in South Africa
Coverage of the South African Rally-Raid Championship varies by event. Select races may be featured on DStv SuperSport, depending on broadcast schedules and event highlights.
Additional coverage, live updates, and official media can typically be found via:
- The official SARRC website and social platforms
- Team and driver YouTube channels
- Event organisers’ livestreams and recap videos
Following multiple platforms is the best way to stay up to date throughout the season.
A Season Built for Endurance
The 2026 SARRC calendar delivers a balanced mix of locations, terrains, and racing challenges that define rally-raid competition in South Africa. Whether you’re following the championship as a fan, competitor, or industry insider, the upcoming season promises drama, grit, and world-class off-road racing from start to finish.
