Encarnación

Encarnación stands as a major motorsport and endurance sports center in Paraguay. The city does not operate a single traditional racing circuit with one fixed layout. Instead, Encarnación hosts multiple international events across different venues and natural terrain. The region features permanent facilities like Autódromo Alfredo Scheid and uses urban spaces for rally events and triathlons. This approach makes Encarnación unique among South American motorsport destinations.

Autódromo Alfredo Scheid

The Autódromo Alfredo Scheid sits in Capitán Miranda, approximately 17 kilometers northeast of Encarnación. This closed dirt track extends over 4 kilometers (2.48 miles) in length. The facility primarily serves as a Super Special Stage venue for the Rally del Paraguay. The track design prioritizes spectator visibility and provides varied terrain challenges within a controlled environment. On August 30, 2025, the circuit hosted SSS 12 of the Rally del Paraguay. The venue offers large screens for live streaming, food and beverage areas, and dedicated security zones. Spectators can watch competition segments safely from close proximity.

FIA World Rally Championship ueno Rally del Paraguay

Encarnación serves as the base city for the ueno Rally del Paraguay, which entered the WRC calendar in 2025. The rally uses the broader Itapúa region for its competitive stages. The stages feature red gravel roads and dense vegetation along the Paraná River. The surface combines smooth red-earth sections with technical segments that demand precision. The soft gravel develops deep ruts on second passes, which tests driver skill in line selection. Fine dust reduces visibility in dry conditions, while rain showers can change surface conditions rapidly. The 2026 edition includes 22 competitive stages covering 356 kilometers of timed sections. This represents an increase from 19 stages and 335 kilometers in 2025. The Service Park operates from Encarnación's Civic Center, also called the Sambódromo. This structure measures 440 meters long and holds 11,000 people. The facility hosts opening and closing ceremonies and serves as the Parc Fermé entrance. Fan zones line the Costanera of Encarnación with free access, entertainment shows, and food trucks. Paraguay's WRC debut in 2025 marked a significant achievement for the country. The rally earned recognition as one of the best events in the world championship. The symbolic start in Encarnación features cultural shows, live music, DJs, and carnival performances. Power Stages in locations like Hohenau include circuits with spectacular jumps and excellent spectator viewing areas.

IRONMAN Triathlon Courses

Encarnación has established itself as a premier triathlon destination. The IRONMAN 5150 follows Olympic distance standards with a 1.5 km swim at Playa San José, a 40 km cycling segment along the Costanera, and a 10 km run finishing at the Sambódromo. Paraguay's first IRONMAN 5150 took place on April 13, 2025. The IRONMAN 70.3 debuted on September 28, 2025. This event includes a 1.9 km swim, a 90 km bike ride, and a 21.1 km run. The course showcases the city's riverfront and provides both scenic views and technical challenges. Both events attract local and international competitors and serve as qualifiers for world championships.

Additional Facilities

The Circuito Pradera Alta Encarnación exists at GPS coordinates -27.37793, -55.80756, though specific details about this facility remain limited. The Autódromo Erich Lautenschlager appears in records as a closed dirt track exceeding 4 kilometers in the Itapúa department. This may reference the same facility as Autódromo Alfredo Scheid or represent a separate venue.