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Organizers of Rally Chile, the 12th round of the 2026 World Rally Championship season, reported over 450,000 spectators along the stages and at the opening and closing ceremonies in Concepción, with only seven arrests made during the event.
The Biobío region of Chile drew rally fans from across the globe. Organizers noted that, somewhat unexpectedly even for them, a significant crowd also gathered for the shakedown.
“Even the shakedown attracted a large number of fans – something that didn't happen last year – but everyone behaved exceptionally well,” explained Rally Director Felipe Horta to local radio station BioBio. “We truly have the best fans in the world.”
Horta, who has experience with events worldwide, added that organizers, in collaboration with local police, successfully educated the public, ensuring the special stages ran smoothly without incident.
Throughout the entire competition, only one serious incident was reported: five minors and an 18-year-old threatened a man and a woman with a firearm while they were camping near one of the stages. This occurred overnight, and the individuals were promptly arrested.
Meanwhile, Biobío Governor Sergio Giacaman confirmed that the regional council has approved the rally's budget for upcoming seasons, with the ambition of keeping Rally Chile as a WRC round.
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