“Unacceptable behavior”: The Rally Italia Sardegna has become a major issue

The Rally Italia Sardegna, the final round of the 2026 World Rally Championship season, has become a talking point after organizers condemned the behavior of some fans along the shakedown route during the shakedown, calling it “unacceptable,” the traditional opening stage that kicks off every rally on the calendar. In a statement released through official channels, the organizers of the Italian rally distanced themselves from any behavior that violates safety regulations.

“We ask all spectators at the Rally Italia Sardegna to always respect safety regulations,” the statement reads. “The behavior observed during the shakedown is unacceptable. Spectators must remain in authorized areas and follow the instructions of the course marshals and race officials. Anyone who fails to comply with these rules will be removed from the rally.”

“Further violations of safety regulations may result in delays or cancellations of the Special Stages. Please follow the instructions of the marshals and help us ensure the rally proceeds safely for everyone,” concludes the statement posted on the official social media pages of the Rally Italia Sardegna.

The off-road race on the island will be decisive for the Drivers’ Championship, after the FIA decided to permanently cancel the Saudi Arabia Rally—initially chosen as the final round of the 2026 season—due to the geopolitical instability in the Middle East. Competing for the title are Elfyn Evans of Wales, Sami Pajari of Finland, and Oliver Solberg of Sweden. As for the Manufacturers’ title, however, it has already been mathematically secured by Toyota.