Grand Prix de Champagne 2026

A Rally in the True Winter Trial Spirit
27 – 30 September 2026

The Grand Prix de Champagne 2026 marks a return to the roots of classic rallying.
Where previous editions carried the character of a tour rally, this new chapter embraces the true spirit of competition. Inspired by the philosophy behind events such as the Winter Trial, the Grand Prix de Champagne becomes a genuine map reading event, a serious preparation for crews who wish to sharpen their skills ahead of the Winter Trial.
Pure rallying — as it was meant to be.

The Spirit of the Event
Classic rallying was born from adventure, precision and teamwork. The Grand Prix de Champagne 2026 captures exactly that essence: accurate navigation, disciplined timekeeping and well-balanced regularity sections across some of the most atmospheric roads in Western Europe.
Each day brings approximately 250–300 kilometres of carefully crafted route. Expect classic map reading systems and challenging navigation sections that demand full concentration from both driver and co-driver. The regularities are designed to offer exactly the right level of competition to prepare you for the tougher winter event.

An Enchanting but Demanding Route
Our rally begins at the legendary Circuit de Gueux near Reims — a fitting tribute to motorsport heritage. From there, crews will navigate through:
• The rolling vineyards of Champagne
• The quiet D-roads of northern France
• The wooded hills and valleys of Luxembourg
• The technical backroads of Belgium
Each evening, competitors return to carefully selected château-style hotels, where fine dining, excellent wines and shared rally stories complete the day. Because true classic rallying balances competition with camaraderie.

Rally Format
• Four days of rallying
• Approximately 1,000 km total distance
• Based from premium château hotels
• Minimum four regularity sections per day
• Challenging navigation sections (map reading & tulips)
• Accurate timekeeping
• Driving tests at selected locations
• Mechanical support and experienced marshals
• Informal evening results
• Traditional Gala Prize Giving Dinner

No tour class. No shortcuts.
The 2026 edition is fully focused on sporting crews.

Eligible Cars & Coefficient System
Classic cars built before 1987 are eligible, including pre-war cars (pre-1950).
To encourage entrants to bring the oldest cars possible, the Grand Prix de Champagne will apply a coefficient-based results system, calculated according to the age of the vehicle.
The aim is not to disadvantage newer classics, but to recognise and reward the commitment — and courage — required to compete with truly historic machinery. Older cars will benefit from an age-related coefficient applied to the final classification, ensuring fair and exciting competition across the field.
Exact details of the coefficient formula and class divisions will be published in the official event regulations.
This system honours the spirit of classic rallying: celebrating heritage while maintaining sporting integrity.

Who Should Enter?
Drivers who love driving with intent.
Co-drivers who understand that navigation is an art.
Teams who wish to prepare seriously for the Winter Trial or similar historic competitions.
Experience is welcome — enthusiasm is essential.

Entry & Hospitality
To preserve the intimate rally atmosphere, entries will be limited.
Entry Fee: €6,250 per crew, including:
• Entry for one car and two-person crew
• five nights accommodation (double/twin occupancy)
• All dinners, lunches and refreshments
• Detailed rally documentation and time cards
• Rally plates and door numbers
• Mechanical assistance
• Awards and Prize Giving Dinner

The Grand Prix de Champagne 2026
This edition is a conscious evolution.
A step away from the tour rally principle.
A step toward authentic competition.

It celebrates the golden era of rallying — not by recreating the past superficially, but by embracing its core values: navigation, discipline, teamwork and the joy of driving a classic car exactly as it was built to be driven.

A rally that feels timeless.
A serious rehearsal for winter.
A true Grand Prix de Champagne.

Are you ready to take your place at the start line?