An extreme risk of wildfires in the province of Teruel and throughout the Aragón region has led to the decision, which was confirmed in a statement issued by the Department of the Presidency, Justice, Culture and Sport on Wednesday afternoon (July 22nd).
High temperatures, strong winds, very low relative humidity and exceptionally dry conditions, following a prolonged period without rainfall, were the deciding factors.
The decision was taken in light of technical reports recommending this measure and following a meeting attended by Mar Vaquero, the Vice President of the Government of Aragón, Emma Buj, the Mayor of Teruel, Rosa Sánchez, the Government of Aragón’s Territorial Delegate in Teruel, Miguel Ángel Clavero, the Director General of Interior and Emergencies, Ana Oliván, the Director General of Forest Management and representatives of the organising company, Esedos Events & Productions S.L.
The Vice President of the Government of Aragón stated that it is essential to avoid heavy vehicle traffic and the concentration of spectators associated with an event of this nature, thereby minimising any additional risk to the territory.
Local government officials will now work with the FIA and organisers to asses whether the event can be rescheduled later in the year.
Jérôme Roussel, FIA Cross-Country and Regional Rally Championships manager, said: “The decision has been taken to cancel round four of the FIA World Baja Cup, Baja España Aragón, due to the heightened risk of wildfires in the region. The FIA will work closely with RFEDA and the local organisers to assess whether the event can be rescheduled for a later date.”
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