Wildfires hamper the start of the 2024 NTT Tzaneen Rally

The 2024 NTT Tzaneen Rally, a key event in the South African National Rally Championship, has been postponed due to heightened fire danger. Originally scheduled for August 30th and 31st, the rally will be rescheduled to a later date when conditions are safer.

The areas surrounding Tzaneen, including Magoebaskloof, George’s Valley, and the Wolkberg Nature Reserve, have recently experienced devastating fires. According to the Letaba Fire Protection Association, the Fire Danger Index (FDI) is extremely high due to this year’s dry conditions and humidity levels dropping below 15%.”

This severe dryness means even a cigarette butt could ignite a veldfire, posing a significant risk to the region.” The event is held on private and state-owned land, which has already suffered significant fire damage in the past few weeks, and to prevent any further chances of fires, they have requested the event be moved.

The organizers are understandably disappointed about the postponement but emphasize that the safety of competitors, official, and spectators and the future use of the roads are their top priorities. “This is not a goodbye but a see you later,” they assure fans, who can look forward to the event being held later in the year. The new date is contingent on weather conditions improving, with October being a potential target if there is sufficient rainfall to reduce the fire risk.

As the situation develops, rally enthusiasts are encouraged to stay tuned for updates. The organizers remain committed to delivering an exciting and safe event for all participants and spectators.