Biobío Region to Host 2026 WRC Rally, Targeting Economic and Tourism Boost

The World Rally Championship (WRC) Rally Chile Biobío 2026 was officially launched by the Biobío regional government. Governor Sergio Giacaman confirmed the event will run from 10 to 13 September 2026 and expects more than 400,000 visitors, projecting a return of at least 6 pesos for every peso invested and reinforcing the region’s capacity to host major international events.

A promotional caravan will visit 33 communes, giving those hardest hit by recent severe weather systems a chance to showcase local products. The rally’s financing will shift to a partnership with the National Service of Tourism (Sernatur): a 9‑billion‑peso program with the central government contributing 4.5 billion pesos, cutting the regional commitment by the same amount and freeing public resources for other emergencies.

The rally comes as Biobío’s economy struggles, with GDP down 5.2 % in Q1 2026, unemployment at 10.4 %, and informal employment at 28.3 %, while recent storms caused fatalities, floods, road closures and infrastructure damage.