Offroading

HÀ NỘI — The annual Vietnam Offroad PVOIL Cup (VOC) tournament will be upgraded to a national tournament for its 2026 season, promising more competitive races in Đồng Mô, Hà Nội at the end of the month.

Taking place from October 30 to November 1, the event will feature 176 drivers from 88 teams who will compete on 24 racetracks in four categories: Professional, Advanced SUV, Advanced Pickup and Basic (SUV and pickup truck). The Basic SUV category has largest number of teams at 30.

According to the organising committee, the tournament has been registered in the national competition system after a long period of supervision and assessment of the organisation's capabilities.

Now in its 19th season, this year's event will be the largest edition. It is expected to cover more than 1,000 race heats over three days within the campus of the Việt Nam Ethnic Culture and Tourism Village in Đoài Phương commune.

 

Nguyễn Đại Hoàng, head of the organising committee, said the racing area is around 250ha and includes hills, ponds, swamps, dry ravines and forest trails. As usual, the new season also features new terrain to increase the challenge for the racing teams.

Hoàng said the race track is the same one used in 2025, but it has been expanded and more obstacles have been added to up the difficulty level. 

Of all the courses, Track 16, which winds around the large Đồng Mô Lake, has proven to be the most gruelling. It features flooded sections that forced numerous teams to make unexpected withdrawals last year. Meanwhile, Track 20 boasted a nearly 10m-high sheer cliff, and Track 23 stood out as the longest course, cutting through nearly the entire inner forest.

The legendary Adventure Night Race for all teams will return this year, but the obstacle layout will remain secret until the technical inspection on October 31.

Hoàng said the diverse terrain demands specific vehicle-handling skills, situational awareness and tactical acumen from all teams. The organisers aim to raise the event's professional standards, while the night race is expected to add a new layer of excitement to the competition.

A total of VNĐ580 million (US$22,400) in prize money will be awarded.

Alongside the challenging races, a zone for spectators and car lovers will be set up near the courses.

Ford Việt Nam and Toyota Việt Nam will set up two test-drive courses designed simulate actual competition conditions, featuring steep inclines, long stretches of muddy terrain and forest trails. Those interested in testing their abilities can register for a try-out.

The tournament will be streamlived on social media platforms with commentary on individuals courses.

VOC 2026 is jointly organised by OTV Media, the Việt Nam Motor Sports Federation and the Hà Nội Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism with sponsorship from PVOIL. — VNS