National Rally: What’s Happening and How You Can Get Involved

If you’ve heard the buzz about the National Rally and wonder what all the fuss is about, you’re in the right spot. The National Rally is the biggest motorsport gathering in the country, pulling together drivers, fans, and local communities every year. Below you’ll find the latest dates, route highlights, and simple steps to join the fun – whether you’re behind the wheel or cheering from the sidelines.

Key Dates and Routes You Should Know

The 2025 edition of the National Rally kicks off on Saturday, March 15 and runs through Sunday, March 23. Organizers have plotted a mix of dusty back‑roads and slick city streets to keep the challenge fresh. The opening stage starts in Durban, winds through the KwaZulu‑Natal hills, and ends in a night‑time sprint in Pietermaritzburg. Mid‑week, the rally heads west to the rugged terrain around the Karoo, giving drivers a chance to test their endurance.

Why does the route matter? Each section tests a different skill – tight cornering in the city, high‑speed stability on the open plains, and precise car control on the rocky sections. If you’re planning to watch, the best viewing spots are the “Spectator Zones” set up at the start‑finish lines in Durban and the Karoo. They have giant screens, food trucks, and easy access to restrooms, so you can soak up the action without missing a beat.

How to Join as a Participant or Volunteer

Thinking about taking the wheel? Registration opens on January 10 and closes on February 20. The entry fee is R3,500 for a standard class car, which includes safety inspections, a race‑tech brief, and a kit bag with a rally‑approved helmet and fire‑resistant suit. New drivers can sign up for the “Rookie Academy” – a weekend workshop that teaches you the basics of navigation, car prep, and emergency procedures. It’s a great way to get confidence before the real dust hits.

If you’re not driving, there are plenty of roles that keep the rally humming. Volunteers are needed for timing, marshaling, and media support. Signing up is quick: just fill out the short form on the official rally website and you’ll get a confirmation email with your shift schedule. Volunteers get a free entry pass, a rally T‑shirt, and a chance to meet the drivers up close.

For fans who can’t make it in person, the National Rally offers a live stream on the official YouTube channel. The feed includes multiple camera angles, live commentary, and a real‑time GPS map showing each car’s position. You can also follow the hashtag #NationalRally on Twitter for instant updates, behind‑the‑scenes photos, and driver interviews.

Whatever your level of involvement, the National Rally is a chance to experience high‑octane excitement, meet passionate people, and support local businesses that thrive during the event. Mark your calendar, grab your tickets, and get ready for a week of roaring engines, scenic landscapes, and unforgettable moments.