The Porsche Rally Trophy Benelux has been informed that the ADAC Saarland-Pfalz Rally, scheduled for 14 and 15 August, has been cancelled due to the extreme weather conditions currently affecting the region. As a result, Rounds 7 and 8 of the championship will not take place as planned.
Following extensive discussions between the organisers, local authorities and the ADAC, the difficult decision was taken to cancel the event. The prolonged period of hot, dry weather has significantly increased the risk of wildfires, making it impossible to guarantee the safety of competitors, officials, spectators and emergency services.
Safety has always been the highest priority for everyone involved, and while every effort was made to find a viable solution, the organisers ultimately concluded that the rally could not be held under the current circumstances.
The cancellation comes at a crucial stage of the Porsche Rally Trophy Benelux season, with the championship battle closer than ever. After three events, Romain Delhez, together with his two co-drivers Jérôme Marchand and Gérome Bollette this season, leads the standings on 111 points. Loïc Pirot and Jean-Baptiste Bodet are just eight points behind on 103, while John Wartique and Maxime Andernack remain firmly in contention with 100 points. With only 11 points separating the top three crews, every remaining rally promises to play a decisive role in the fight for the 2026 title.
"The cancellation of the Saarland-Pfalz Rally is naturally disappointing for everyone involved," says Series Manager Yves Matton. "The championship is entering a decisive phase, and all competitors were looking forward to another exciting battle in Germany. However, the safety of everyone involved must always come first. We fully respect the decision of the organisers and the local authorities, and we would like to thank them for all the work they invested in preparing the event under exceptionally difficult circumstances."
Championship coordinator Julien Frère adds: "We know how much effort the organising team has put into this rally over the past year, so we sincerely sympathise with everyone involved. We are in close contact with the organisers and will evaluate the possible options for the remainder of the season together with all stakeholders. As soon as more information becomes available regarding the championship calendar, we will communicate it."
The organisers of the ADAC Saarland-Pfalz Rally have indicated that they are exploring the possibility of rescheduling the event later this year. The Porsche Rally Trophy Benelux will provide further updates regarding the championship calendar as soon as they become available
