The iconic Rally Islas Canarias is gearing up for its 49th edition, taking place from 19 to 26 April 2025, as part of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar. With the island’s tight, technical tarmac stages and stunning coastal views, the rally promises to deliver high-speed drama once again and the lead-up to the event is already generating major buzz.
Testing for Rally Islas Canarias began today, Friday, 18 April, with veteran Irish driver Eamonn Boland and Spanish talent Diego Ruiloba getting early seat time on the asphalt. Both drivers are expected to make final tweaks to their setups before the competitive stages begin. Testing will continue through the weekend and into Monday, 21 April, giving teams a crucial window to dial in performance on the notoriously grippy and narrow island roads.
Among the most exciting storylines this year is the return of top-tier WRC names to the Canary Islands. Thierry Neuville is back after a multi-year absence, bringing Hyundai’s latest asphalt package to the test on these technical roads. Also making a welcome return is Adrien Fourmaux, whose pace and commitment on tarmac stages have impressed in previous seasons after his victory in 2020. Their presence is sure to raise the level of competition and draw fans from across the archipelago.
In preparation for the rally’s start, several key routes will be closed on Saturday, 19 April, for testing activities. Affected roads include:
- GC-305 (Firgas): PK 1.1 to 4.6
- GC-810 (Valsequillo): PK 6.5 to 7.8
- GC-220 (Gáldar): PK 4.4 to 8.0
- GC-503 (Ayagaures): PK 8.5 to 13.2
- GC-217 & GC-215 (Artenara): PK 0.6 to 2.7
Closures will be in effect from 09:00 to 13:00 and from 15:00 to 19:00, allowing teams to fine-tune their cars on representative surfaces.
This year’s itinerary features a mix of fan-favorite stages and some fresh twists. From the mountain switchbacks of Tejeda to the fast flowing descents near Moya, the route will push drivers and co-drivers to their limits. Expect classic stages such as San Mateo and Artenara to return, with tight time gaps and tyre strategies playing a key role.
The route map, available on the official rally site, showcases a compact yet challenging layout that loops around the northern and central parts of Gran Canaria during Friday and Saturday and south of the island on Sunday, offering both spectators and competitors a full rally experience in a breathtaking setting.