The 2026 Nicky Grist Stages is set to return to Mid Wales this summer with a challenging new route across some of the region’s most iconic rally terrain.
Taking place on Saturday 11 July, the popular event will feature 44 stage miles on gravel roads in and around the Mynydd Epynt military range, with new competitive sections introduced to keep the rally fresh and exciting for crews and fans alike.
The route will open with the Monument stage before moving on to two well known tests on the Carmarthenshire Powys border, Crychan and Halfway. Crychan will also carry the name ‘Bowlsey’ in tribute to the late Pete Bowles, a long standing member of the organising club and former event winner. The loop will conclude with Route 60, which returned to the rally last year after a seven year absence. All four stages will then be repeated in the afternoon.
Organised by Quinton Motor Club, the event will once again be based in Builth Wells, with the start taking place on Strand Street, the finish on the banks of the River Wye and the service area located on the Groe.
Now in its 17th consecutive year of title sponsorship from Nicky Grist Motorsports, the rally will also form part of six major championships, including the Protyre Autocare BTRDA Rally Series and the Pirelli Welsh Rally Championship.
As in previous years, road mileage will be kept to a minimum, ensuring an action packed day for competitors, marshals and spectators.
The event continues to benefit from strong local backing, including support from Powys County Council, Builth Wells Town Council and Builth Wells RFC, alongside local businesses and residents.
Sustainability efforts will also remain a key focus, with the rally continuing its collaboration with Carbon Positive Motorsport, which has already supported the planting of thousands of trees in Wales, as well as GoSafe.
Reigning Protyre BTRDA and Pirelli Welsh Rally Champion Matthew Hirst said: “The Nicky Grist Stages is always one I look forward to every year.
“It’s a proper drivers’ rally – fast, technical and with a brilliant atmosphere. It usually attracts some big names as well, which adds a real intrigue for spectators and makes it even more rewarding for anyone who manages to win it. It’s great to see the organisers continuing to evolve the route while keeping what makes it so special.”
Event founder Nicky Grist added: “It is another year and yet another Nicky Grist Stages, and as always the team have put together another great route which covers all of the classic stages that so many crews love to compete on.
“I have my fingers crossed that we can have another glorious day up on the ranges, when normally the weather adds another challenge for the crews in managing the hot and dry conditions. I look forward to seeing you all in Builth Wells in July.”
Clerk of the Course Neil Cross said: “There are always challenges when planning a rally route and this year has been no exception.
“That said, we are blessed to have so many fantastic stages near the rally base in Builth Wells, and we have been able to create a route, on both NRW and MOD land, which we trust will be both challenging and enjoyable for our competitors. We’ll also ensure competitors continue to get value for money by offering more stage miles for the lowest possible entry fee.”
Key dates for the 2026 event have also been confirmed, with regulations published on Sunday 17 May and entries opening the following day. The first car will start at 08:31 on Saturday 11 July, with the first finishers expected from 15:30.
