(SeaPRwire) –   NORRIS, Tenn., May 24, 2026 — The 9 Lakes of East Tennessee region will come alive in 2026 as the highly anticipated Overmountain Rally Tennessee 2026 returns on September 18 and 19, carrying a nostalgic spirit inspired by the golden age of auto racing and iconic manufacturer rivalries. This year’s event is already emerging as one of the most eagerly awaited rally competitions in U.S. rally history, drawing top-tier national and international teams to Tennessee’s mountain roads.

Fans can look forward to an unmatched lineup of elite rally talent and factory-supported competition, including entries from MINI USA competing in the Limited 4WD and Limited 2WD categories, the globally renowned Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team fielding RC2 class entries, and Block House Racing with its prominent Hyundai and Rockstar Energy-sponsored program competing in the RC2 division.

Alongside these headline-making teams, event organizers anticipate a robust field of top domestic and international “gentleman drivers” behind the wheel of some of the most cutting-edge RC2 rally cars currently competing in North America. The breadth of talent and caliber of vehicles joining the 2026 event are set to push Overmountain Rally Tennessee to a new high on the national motorsports stage.

“This year’s rally embodies the spirit of classic motorsport competition, with manufacturers going head-to-head, exceptional driving skill, and fans lining the roads for an unforgettable experience,” said Dave Matheson, event organizer. “The level of interest from teams across the globe has been astounding, and 2026 is on track to be the largest Overmountain Rally to date.”

Set against the scenic backdrop of East Tennessee’s lengthy, winding mountain roads, the rally blends world-class motorsports with the region’s deep Appalachian heritage, attracting fans, photographers, and car enthusiasts from across the nation. Many of the same narrow backroads that now test professional rally drivers were once used by moonshine runners transporting bootleg liquor through the Cherokee National Forest and surrounding counties during the peak of Appalachia’s bootlegging era. These historic routes, carved into the landscape long before modern highways, now offer a dramatic, authentic setting that links the thrill of rally racing to the rebellious spirit and folklore of East Tennessee’s moonshine history.

“These roads have stories to share,” said Julie Graham, Executive Director of 9 Lakes of East Tennessee. “Long before rally cars raced through these mountains, these winding backroads were used by bootleggers transporting moonshine through the Cherokee National Forest under the cover of night. This deep Appalachian history gives Overmountain Rally Tennessee an atmosphere and authenticity unmatched by any other motorsports event in the nation. We’re thrilled to welcome teams, fans, and visitors back to East Tennessee for another unforgettable rally experience in 2026.”

Tickets, spectator guides, volunteer openings, and event updates will be announced in the coming months as excitement around Overmountain Rally Tennessee 2026 continues to grow. Fans are advised to plan ahead and follow the event as top rally teams from across the globe get ready to tackle East Tennessee’s iconic mountain roads. For the latest updates, competitor news, and travel details, visit Overmountain Rally Tennessee.

About the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee
The 9 Lakes of East Tennessee invites travelers to explore nine connected lakes, mountain scenery, historic downtowns, and outdoor recreation offerings across East Tennessee. Centered around the waterways managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority, the region is known for its scenic drives, paddling trails, cycling routes, fishing, hiking, and deep Appalachian heritage. Whether exploring quiet backroads, lively lake communities, or iconic waterways, visitors can experience the genuine spirit of Tennessee’s outdoors.

SOURCE 9 Lakes of East Tennessee