The internet-based TV platform 'ABEMA' has announced broadcast details for the 'FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) Forum Eight Rally Japan 2026,' scheduled from Thursday, May 28, to Sunday, May 31, 2026. The entire event will be available for free live streaming.
From May 25 to 31, ABEMA will launch the 'Rally Japan Channel,' a dedicated 24-hour special programming channel accessible for free.
The broadcast features a lineup of high-profile guests, including Shohei Osada (Chocolate Planet) as the 'ABEMA Rally Japan Support Captain,' Maggy as the 'ABEMA Motorsports Ambassador,' former Yokozuna Masaru Hanada, speed skating gold medalist Nana Takagi, comedian Shinobu Hasegawa (Sissonne), and talent Aika Sawaguchi.
In addition to the racing action, ABEMA will offer original segments for each Special Stage (SS), on-site reports, and exclusive talks about the guests' personal cars to highlight the appeal of Rally Japan.
Key Highlights: - May 28 (Thu): Opening Ceremony featuring Maggy and an exclusive interview with driver Takamoto Katsuta. - May 29 (Fri): Liaison reporting by Aika Sawaguchi, Masaru Hanada, and Moe Kawase. - May 30 (Sat): Kasagiyama SS9 with pro driver Toshiki Oyu; SS10 with Shinobu Hasegawa and Shohei Osada. - May 31 (Sun): Finale coverage at Mikawako SS20 with Shohei Osada and Nana Takagi.
A daily giveaway campaign featuring rally car scale models and original merchandise will be held via the ABEMA Motorsports official X account (@ABEMA_motor).
With high expectations for Japanese driver Takamoto Katsuta, who recently won the Safari Rally Kenya, ABEMA aims to bring the excitement and speed of the championship to a wide audience through this extensive coverage.
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: Event
- Organizations: FIA