This year, the oldest round of the Kroon-Oil Belgian Rally Championship, the A&D Omloop van Vlaanderen, is all about celebration. For the 65th edition, the Royal Automobile Club Midden Vlaanderen will present numerous innovations on the course, a special demo race highlighting the rich history of rallying, as well as a completely revamped website.
Revamped course with focus on experience and safety
The major changes to the course are mainly on Friday. Both KP Beveren and KP Zwevezele - which returns to the rotation after a year's absence - have been thoroughly redesigned. On Saturday, only KP Zilverberg and KP Zoning remain unchanged, while KP Houthulst, KP Passendale and KP Rumbeke are undergoing some optimisations. "Safety is central. Express attention was paid to determining a realistic number of track posts. We want both participants and spectators to enjoy the event to the fullest," stressed chairman Yves Olivier.
KP Zoning plays a central role in this year's rally. Not only Division 1 races here on Friday, but Division 2 and the regularity competitors will also be in action. Thanks to this set-up, the rally centre near the Zwaaikomstraat will become the bustling heart of Friday's event. "With the service area nearby and constant action on KP Zoning, it will be the place for fans to experience the atmosphere and spectacle up close for free," said Yves Olivier.
Division 1 competitors will complete a total of 20 special stages - five on Friday and 15 on Saturday - good for around 190 kilometres against the clock. Division 2 will drive only KP Zoning on Friday and work through 12 tests on Saturday, together good for 120 kilometres against the clock.
A unique edition with all championships at the start
The A&D Omloop van Vlaanderen is proud to be the only race to count towards all national rally championships:
- Kroon-Oil BRC Division 1
- Kroon-Oil BRC Division 2
- Mats-Performance M Cup
- Stellantis Motorsport Rally Cup Belux
- Histo-Cup
In addition, a prestigious regularity race with speed classes of 50 km/h and 65 km/h will be organised in collaboration with Rock N Roll Cassics.
65 years of rally history in the spotlight with demo race
"We will celebrate our anniversary with a unique demo race, paying tribute to six decades of wonderful rallying," says the chairman enthusiastically. "We will actively seek out original historic rally cars, such as legendary WRC cars and iconic historic cars that caused a furore in the past."
Owners of original cars can apply. The number of participants is limited and will be carefully selected. They will participate in the Saturday programme of Division 2, including a photo shoot and a prominent place in the rally centre. Friday participation is optional so that the programme remains manageable for these valuable classics.
Revamped website heralds anniversary year
The organisation also launched its completely revamped website: www.omloopvanvlaanderen.be. This digital revamp marks the start of the run-up to the 65th edition. With a fresh design, smooth navigation on both desktop and mobile, and extensive content, the organisation wants to inform and enthuse participants, fans, partners, media and local residents even better.
"We not only want to honour our rich history, but also look ahead with a modern outlook. The revamped site should become a dynamic platform for everyone involved in this unique rally," said Yves Olivier.
The 65th A&D Omloop van Vlaanderen promises to be an unforgettable edition where past, present and future of rallying come together in a unique motorsport weekend.
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