The weather badly interfered with the successful conduct of the 56th Mecsek Rallye, as far as the first day's program is concerned.

The forecasts had already predicted that in addition to the terrible heat, rain could also be expected, so even just because of the correct choice of tires, it was a topic among the competitors, what will happen if it rains. In the morning, everyone was still complaining about the heat, and it was not possible to know for sure whether the storm would really overtake Mecsek.

However, after the first round, during the ceremonial start ceremony at Széchenyi Square, while the racing cars were passing the podium, the organizers finally decided to interrupt the program due to the coming storm, which promised to be serious, for the sake of the safety of the competitors and the spectators. Thus, the competitors were informed of the change of plan before they could complete the last three stages. This was the end of the first day's struggle for them and all that was left was to get the racing cars to safety as soon as possible.

On the first day of the 56th Mecsek Rallye, Friday, a total of 184 pairs started in three different categories. Among them, supply, mainly featuring Ladas, R3-as field started the program on perhaps the hottest day of the year, on the Mandulás-Árpádtetto section. The 35 pairs competing in this category only had to test their skills on Saturday, on a total of five stages, but in the end they were only able to complete three courses. Due to the car hitting the strip barrier in the first lap, it was not safe to start again due to the coating on the road, so the field passed through it in stages.

The last section, between Komló and Hosszúhetény, could not be held due to weather conditions. Thus, at the end of the short day, the duo Ákos Lenkey - Cintia Drótos won the overall, followed by the duo Zsolt Korom - József Kovács in second place. The third best was Richard Békési and his navigator Zsolt Bernát Martin.

After the R3 team, the field of special, old techniques, a Historic category followed, which is a real treat for fans, with legendary cars, many returning foreign drivers and, of course, well-known domestic drivers.

Enduring the incredible heat was much more of a challenge for the competitors than completing the courses.

In the international evaluation, after the first three stages, the Érdi's lead the table ahead of the Italian "Lucky", Karl Wagner and Michael Putz.

“Lucky” – Fabrizia Pons (Lancia Delta HF Integrale):

This is a very special race. The heat makes our work very difficult, not only physically, but also technically. It's very good, there are long stages, it's a very cool race.