Unlike many automakers who celebrate anniversaries only with stickers and special badges, the Czech company Skoda has approached the matter more fundamentally. On the occasion of its 125th anniversary of sporting achievements, the brand is introducing a special version of the Fabia RS Rally2 race car, demonstrating that even a genuine rally weapon can wear an anniversary badge quite seriously.
Heritage and Modernity in a Special Package
Skoda’s motorsport history began back in 1901. Now, in 2026, the brand is one of the leaders in the WRC2 championship. To emphasize this heritage, every Fabia RS Rally2 delivered to customer teams during 2026 will receive the standard “125 Years” package.
This package is not just about stylistic changes. It includes real technical improvements useful for professional rally crews. The package consists of:
Exterior and Interior of the Anniversary Model
The car’s exterior has not changed radically, which is a conscious decision. The wide body kit and aerodynamic package remain untouched. The differences lie in the new livery and the dark-chromed Skoda emblem on the hood. Inside, a commemorative plaque and a special “125 Years” welcome screen on the digital instrument panel have appeared.
Furthermore, owners will receive a car cover with the corresponding inscription and various merchandise from the automaker’s racing division.
Source: Skoda’s Smallest EV Has One Big-Car Surprise
Technical Specifications of the Rally Champion
The Fabia RS Rally2 was first introduced in 2022, and in 2025 it received a series of updates. The car is equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing 290 horsepower. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via a five-speed sequential gearbox, which works in tandem with mechanical differentials on both axles for optimal traction.
This model has been the primary tool for victories in the WRC2 championship over the last three seasons. Last year, it also brought titles in the European, Middle Eastern, and Asia-Pacific championships, confirming its competitiveness on various tracks around the world.
What About the Road Version of the Fabia?
Despite the rally Fabia RS Rally2 offering serious performance, its road-going counterpart never received a full-fledged RS version. Instead, Skoda recently introduced the Fabia 130 model, which brings it closer to the “warm” hatchback class.
This model is equipped with an upgraded turbocharged 1.5-liter engine producing 175 horsepower, paired with a lowered suspension and updated control software. The car also received moderate aerodynamic elements, such as a front spoiler, rear wing, and diffuser. The exterior is complemented by “130” badges and darkened 18-inch alloy wheels with red brake calipers.
Source: Skoda’s Super-Sized EV Takes Aim At The Hyundai Ioniq 9
This anniversary project clearly demonstrates Skoda’s priorities: even celebratory initiatives are based on technical improvement and respect for sporting history. The emphasis on real improvements for customer teams, rather than marketing moves, speaks to a deep understanding of the needs of the rally world. The parallel existence of a powerful rally machine and a more accessible road version indicates an understanding of different audiences. This approach not only strengthens the brand’s image in motorsport but also serves as a powerful tool for technology transfer and creating an emotional connection with car enthusiasts who value sporting heritage.