A record 471 vehicles are signed up for this year’s Shannons Adelaide Rally (external site) (external site), making it the world’s largest closed-road rally event.
The tarmac rally, held across Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills from 21 to 23 November, is now larger than the likes of Italy’s legendary Mille Miglia and will see drivers from across Australia and from as far afield as Scotland, Ireland, Indonesia and Ireland battling it out for outright honours and the grand prize of $20,000 – the biggest cash prize available for a single event in Australian rallying.
Spectator stages and street parties at locations including Strathalbyn, Wairoa (Aldgate to Stirling) and Mount Lofty, in addition to the Gouger Street Party and North Adelaide Finale, will give fans plenty of opportunities to check out these speedy machines.
Last year’s rally saw a tota
l of 34,320 spectators attend the free community events, bringing almost $8 million into South Australia.
That economic footprint is expected to increase to $9 million in 2025, with the field at full capacity and an increase in international entrants.
The Gouger Street Party alone has an attendance of more than 11,000, generating more than $1 million for the renowned restaurant precinct.
Event Director Tim Possingham said State Government support had given the event, “the certainty and scope to grow … into something of real significance on a global level”.
“We are also acutely aware of the burgeoning lifestyle and touring element of this event that continues to go from strength to strength, made only possible by the fact that as South Australians we have premium food and wine regions on the doorstep of a capital city.
“This is something that can’t be replicated in any other part of Australia, let alone the world.”
