Vryheid is gearing up for two days of rally-raid action as the VAPS HCV Vryheid 400 returns on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 October 2026. With the championship approaching its finish, there is plenty to race for in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
Vryheid Airfield is the event hub, hosting the start and finish, race headquarters and the service area. For local 4x4 and motorsport fans, it is a chance to enjoy top-level racing close to home.
The route and race times
The planned route combines fast farmland tracks and riverside sections with forest roads and technical mountain trails. Here is the published programme, with all times in South African time:
- Friday, 09:30: a 20 km qualifying race sets the starting order.
- Friday, 13:00: Stage One covers approximately 70 km.
- Saturday, 08:30: Stage Two starts, covering approximately 175 km.
- Saturday, final stage: crews return to the airfield for a compulsory 30-minute service break before the final approximately 175 km stage.
Read the official route preview and spectator information.
Driver and navigator updates
One confirmed change is the arrival of Pim Klaassen and Sasha Siripanyavuthi in the Red-Lined Motorsport line-up. The DaklaPack Rallysport pairing will compete under the Red-Lined banner for the first time at Vryheid, driving the Dragon Energy REVO T1+ GT-R, according to the team's latest preview.
The local event preview also reports a first Vryheid appearance for Mike and Luke Lawlor. These are announced highlights; the final field remains subject to official entry updates.
Heading out to watch?
Start your weekend plans around Vryheid Airfield and use the organiser's latest spectator information for designated viewing points. Follow the racing on the RallySafe app, and follow marshal instructions along the route.
At Auto Boutique SA 4x4 Fitment & Leisure, we are looking forward to another motorsport weekend in our hometown. Planning your own 4x4 upgrades? Chat to our Vryheid team about accessories and professional fitment.
Information checked on 5 October 2026. Programme based on the organiser's 29 September preview; distances and times may be revised. Sources: MSA route preview, Red-Lined team preview and Northern Natal News
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