2026 FIA European Historic Rally Championship: A New Era for Gravel Drivers

Historic rallying embraces gravel — and Vittorio Caneva Rally School is ready to shape the next generation of loose-surface masters.

The FIA has revealed the 2026 European Historic Rally Championship calendars, confirming a major evolution for the discipline, one of the three official championships will now be fully gravel-based.

This marks a turning point for historic rallying, giving competitors the chance to tackle the purest surface in motorsport with events designed specifically for loose-surface specialists.

For many teams and privateers competing with rear-wheel drive icons, from BMW M3s and Escorts to Lancia and Porsche models, this is more than just a new championship. It’s a call to master the art of car control on gravel, where precision and flow make the difference between a stage win and a spin.

Train Like a Champion: Gravel Mastery at Vittorio Caneva Rally School

With 29 World Rally Championship won by our drivers since 1989, the Vittorio Caneva Rally School has become the global reference for gravel driving education.
And now, with the FIA Historic Gravel Championship opening new horizons, Caneva introduces the RWD Gravel Training Program, specifically tailored for historic rally drivers and enthusiasts looking to refine their car control, pace, and confidence on loose surfaces.

At our base in Italy, we now offer sessions with a BMW E36 RWD rally-prepared car, built to simulate the exact handling and feedback of the classic rear-wheel-drive legends that populate the Historic Rally stages.
It’s the perfect platform to practice:

Throttle steering and balance control
Braking and coasting techniques
Precision on mixed-grip surfaces
Stage rhythm and surface reading for period-correct setups

These sessions can be tailored for 2WD historic rally competitors, testing, or preparation for the 2026 gravel events.

Why Gravel Training Matters for Historic Cars

Gravel driving demands a unique skill set, far from the grip and predictability of tarmac. Drivers must read the surface, manage weight transfer, and maintain momentum with minimal traction. Historic cars, especially those with rear-wheel drive and limited electronic assistance, magnify the importance of pure driver input.

Our RWD Stage Gravel Rally Courses teach the same techniques used by WRC drivers, adapted to the dynamics of historic machinery. With personal coaching from world-level instructors, on board camera feedback, and full day-by-day progression, it’s the most efficient and authentic way to prepare for competition.

Your Path to the Historic European Gravel Championship Starts Here

Whether you’re entering the FIA Historic Gravel Championship, preparing a classic for rally stages, or simply want to rediscover the thrill of driving sideways, Vittorio Caneva Rally School provides the environment, expertise, and machinery to sharpen your skills and performance.