The 2020 Silk Way Rally, a round of the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship, has been cancelled…

Following the recommendations of the Russian Ministry of Sport and the Russian Automotive Federation, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation in conjunction with the race organisers of the Silk Way Rally has taken the decision to cancel this year’s event. 

Famous for its epic scale from Moscow to Kazan, the 2020 Silk Way Rally was scheduled to run eight stages from July 2-11 and originally form round three of the 2020 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship. After rounds one and two were cancelled, it looked like Russia could become the starting point for the championship but that has been scuppered.

The race organisers say they have taken decision after an in-depth study of the current pandemic and specifically the travel situation for international competitors after consultations with all the authorities concerned.

Despite the preparation undertaken by the organisation teams already, they are still confronted by uncertainties concerning crossing borders, air traffic restrictions and other different quarantine measures still in force in Russia for foreign citizens.

Vladimir Chagin, Organisation Director: “We have done a remarkable job, but this decision must be accepted and understood. We have a responsible approach and today health is the absolute priority. The worldwide situation is still very sensitive and we have to deal with quarantine measures in most parts of Russia. With those uncertainties, we are not able to finish preparation work, and then organize the event. Next week we will take advantage of this enforced break to start, with as much enthusiasm as always, the organisation of the next edition, that will be as exciting and thrilling as ever.”

Sam Sunderland was victorious at the 2019 event on his way to winning the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship. The race organisation committee are already making plans to start work on the 2021 edition.

Photo Credit: Rally Zone