Get Ready for the 2026 Winter Trial – An Unforgettable Rally Adventure!
We are excited to unveil our plans for the 2026 Winter Trial, taking place from January 25 to January 30! This year’s rally promises a thrilling mix of snow-covered landscapes, exhilarating rally roads, and the challenging navigation you’ve come to love.
Our adventure begins near the picturesque city of Salzburg, leading us south for an unforgettable day in Slovenia, before heading into the breathtaking Italian Dolomites for the remainder of the event. A special highlight: the Trial class will take on its first night stage in Slovenia on Monday evening. The journey concludes near the stunning Lake Garda, where we will celebrate with an unforgettable evening that will leave you with lasting memories!
What is The Winter Trial?
The Winter Trial is a six-day regularity rally for classic cars, held in the heart of winter. It’s all about precision driving on snowy roads through challenging terrain while staying as close as possible to the designated times. Participants will cover approximately 350 km per day, with experienced teams tackling two additional night loops of roughly 150 km each.
What to Expect?
– Scrutineering & Signing On – January 24, 2025
Salzburgring, Austria | 10:00 – 15:00
– Leg 0: Practice Regularities – January 24, 2025
Start: Arabella Jagdhof, Hof bei Salzburg
– Official Start – January 25, 2025
Salzburgring | 8:30
– Finish – January 30, 2025
– Eligible Cars – Classic cars built before December 31, 1985
– Total Distance – Approx. 2,500 km
– Navigation Style – Basic map reading & tulip diagrams
– Competition Format – Regularities & driving tests
A Look Back at Winter Trial History
The first-ever Winter Trial took place in 2001, with Roger Byford and Willy Cave claiming victory in an MGB. The rally started in the Netherlands, winding its way through the Alps to finish in Monte Carlo. Since then, we have explored every snowy destination Europe has to offer. Last year, the event kicked off near Salzburg and wrapped up at the stunning Wolfgang see, where the winners were celebrated in spectacular style, complete with fireworks, live music, and an unforgettable show by Marc van Laere’s team.
For the third consecutive year, Rob van Leeuwen and Maurits Verhoeff took the top spot—will you be the ones to break their streak?
What’s New for 2026?
A brand-new route through Austria, Slovenia and the Italian Dolomites. Promising fresh challenges and breath taking scenery!
New to The Winter Trial? No Problem!
If this is your first time, don’t worry. We will be hosting an introductory session in December 2025 to walk you through the basics and set you up for success.
Who Can Enter?
All you need is a valid driving license, a classic car, a sense of adventure, and a good sense of humor!
Which Cars Are Eligible?
All Classic Cars produced before 1986
Your car should be reliable, safe, have a fuel range of at least 300 km, and be equipped with an accurate trip meter
(see the regulations for what type you can bring).
Which Class Should You Enter?
– Challenge Class – Drives the full daytime route but skips the evening loops. More time for socializing and unwinding at the bar!
– Trial Class – For those seeking more competition, including two evening loops of about 3 hours each. A skilled navigator is recommended!
Do You Need a Competition License?
Yes, as we are organizing under the KNAF regulations. We are working on a streamlined process for obtaining licenses for 2026.
Do You Need Rally Experience?
Not at all! The Winter Trial is a road rally, not a high-speed race. There’s no need for helmets or fireproof gear—just a passion for driving, a sense of adventure, and a love for classic cars. Expect a fun, friendly atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow participants and soak in the winter wonderland.
What’s Included in the Entry Fee?
– 6 days of exhilarating rally driving through stunning winter landscapes
– Roadbook & map book (provided the day before the start)
– Accommodation and all meals, from the welcome dinner to the prize-giving dinner
– Finisher’s awards and trophies for class winners
– Rally plates, number roundels, and sponsor stickers
– Support from our dedicated team of marshals and mechanics
What’s Not Included?
– Fuel
– Bar bills
– Vehicle insurance
– Car transport to and from the event
Entry Fees
– Secure your spot with a €2,500 deposit
– Balance due before May 1, 2025: €4,750
– Balance due after May 1, 2025: €5,000
– Total entry fee if paid before May 1, 2025: €7,250
– Total entry fee if paid after May 1, 2025: €7,750
Join the Adventure!
For more details, reach out to the Rally Office. By submitting your entry form, you agree to the terms outlined in our event regulations.
See you on the snow-covered roads of the 2026 Winter Trial!
Winter Trial 2026
25 January 2026 @ 00:00 - 30 January 2026 @ 00:00
