Rally Norway 2006, an official FIA candidate event 

Official candidate event status means Rally Norway is going to be officially observed and evaluated by the FIA in terms of suitability for inclusion in the future FIA World Rally Championship calendar.  Norway has submitted a bid to host a WRC round from 2007.

“It’s great news that Rally Norway is going to be evaluated officially as a candidate for full WRC status,” said Jim Carlsen, MD of Rally Norway. 

“We have been working hard to show the FIA and teams what Norway has to offer as a stage for world-class rallying and they have shown a lot of interest already.   Now the pressure is on to make sure we deliver an event worthy of the World Championship.  2006 may seem like a trial run but we will treat it as though it is already a WRC event. Our aim is the highest standard for competitors and the best fun for fans.”

Rally Norway 2006 will take place on 10 and 11 February, one week after the Uddeholm Swedish Rally.   Rally Norway’s HQ is a three hour drive from Karlstad, the Swedish Rally base.  Norway will run 300km of SS over two days and this will become Leg 1 and Leg 2 in 2007 if Rally Norway becomes part of the WRC calendar.

Carlsen adds, "One of our main advantages is pairing with the Uddeholm Swedish Rally, and in so doing we facilitate cost efficiency which is a major focus for the manufacturers right now.  In addition this year Rally Norway is offering complimentary accommodation and facilities for the factory teams at the WRC Test Camp Haslemoen."