October 15th 2025

Loutraki to host 2026 EKO Acropolis Rally Greece

After five successful years headquartered in Lamia, the event will return to a region steeped in rallying heritage. Loutraki, located on the Gulf of Corinth and just an hour from capital city Athens, previously hosted the Acropolis between 2009 and 2013, and now welcomes the WRC back with renewed ambition.

Simon Larkin, Senior Events Director at WRC Promoter GmbH, said: “When the WRC returned to Greece in 2021 for the EKO Acropolis Rally, it was with the intention that the event could, from time to time, relocate to maximise its remarkable sporting heritage and the significant economic impact that a WRC round brings to each host country and region.

“Lamia has been an excellent home for the past five years. In line with the Minister's vision and his team’s, we are now bringing the heart of the rally to Loutraki, closer to Athens. Loutraki offers a rich variety of stage opportunities, easier access for new audiences, and additional tourism potential.”

The decision to move followed a competitive bidding process involving the municipalities of Almyros-Volos, Lamia, and Loutraki-Perachora-Aghioi Theodoroi. Each proposal was assessed for its infrastructure, functionality and contribution to the rally’s ongoing success, with Loutraki ultimately chosen as host city.

Greek Alternate Minister of Sports Giannis Vroutsis welcomed the move, saying: “The EKO Acropolis Rally is a living institution of Greek sport and one of our country’s most important ambassadors internationally. This marks a new era filled with challenges and opportunities for our event. All parties involved will work in close coordination to ensure the success of this new phase, as the rally continues to run through three Regions.”

While the service park and rally headquarters will shift to Loutraki, organisers confirmed that the 2026 route will continue to feature a mix of classic gravel tests within Central Greece, preserving the event’s distinctive character and reputation as one of the toughest rallies in the world.

The Ministry of Sports and Motorsport Greece extended thanks to Lamia and the Region of Central Greece for five years of successful collaboration, noting their vital role in re-establishing the Acropolis on the WRC calendar since its 2021 return.

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