For another time in a row, the Polfill brand proudly contributed to the biggest charity car rally in Europe. The 19th edition of Złombol Banger Rally this year was unique both in terms of the route and the atmosphere. The drivers set off from Chorzów on July 5th and after several days of struggle they reached Giresun in northern Turkey.
This year, the Polfill logo was sported on a Lublin LCV made in 2003, with Mariusz Karcz behind the wheel for yet another challenge in the series. He was accompanied on the route by his wife, Jola, as the co-driver.
The challenge was not easy with over 3000 km one way, without technical assistance, but with lots of adventures and surprises along the way. Well, this is exactly what Złombol Banger Rally is all about – pushing your limits, having fun and really helping.
Złombol – a rally that helps the youngest
For those who do not yet know – Złombol is a charity car rally, where vehicles compete that were manufactured or designed during the times of the Polish People’s Republic and the former communist countries.
It is not a classic time trial or race – it is about helping and about adventure. It is a non-profit event, and the funds collected by the crews go to orphanages.
Every year, Złombol Banger Rally attracts hundreds of teams who, despite the limited technical capabilities of their vehicles, cover thousands of kilometres, proving that a journey is not just about cars and views, but also about people, passion, and a common goal.
This year’s edition – finish in Asia
The 2025 edition of Złombol 2025 set off from the Silesian Stadium, with a colourful convoy headed for distant Asia. This year’s route was exceptionally demanding, as it led through 10 countries, including the Czech Republic, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria and further – all the way to the Giresun city on the Black Sea.
This meant not only many kilometres of uphill climbs and heat of over 39°C, but also numerous border crossings, mountain roads and adventures that no one can plan in advance.
The Road: breakdowns, heatwaves and unforgettable moments
The first sections of the journey were quite dynamic. Already in Serbia, a Polonez of a friendly team had to have its alternator replaced. The mountain climbs in the heat severely tested the endurance of both people and cars.
The participants had overnight stays in atmospheric places, such as the Serbian town of Pirot, where the lullaby at the campsite was delivered by … peacocks, reacting to the sound of a Maluch engine starting nearby.
The Lublin LCV and our heroes bravely covered kilometre by kilometre along the route. Despite problems with the cooling system, we managed to keep the vehicle running. As befits Złombol, a breakdown is not a reason to panic, just part of the adventure.
Bulgaria welcomed the participants with extreme heat – the temperature was so high that the organizers sent out warning messages on overheating danger. This, however, did not discourage the team from continuing their journey.
We entered into Turkey through a side border crossing without the need to wait in line, although we had to undergo a full baggage inspection. The crossing to the Asian side was a symbolic moment of the expedition.
Finish line – well-deserved joy on the beach
After several days of struggle, breakdowns and heat, the team reached the finish line. The camp was set up on the beach, and in the evening we had a final party in an atmosphere of joy and mutual support. As our participants reported:
“It’s been really hard, but the outcome is all the more so satisfying.”.
The return and meetings that remain in memory
The return journey also brought surprises. A day spent in the Turkish workshop, again for problems with the Polonez, let us make extraordinary friends with local residents. Even though it was not a typical tourist setting, it is moments like that create true memories.
Summary
The Lublin LCV crew (but also the friendly one) officially ended their expedition having covered 6,720 kilometres and visited 10 countries. As they say:
“There have been challenges, there have been unforgettable meetings – that is everything that Złombol is about.”
Now it is time to get back to everyday life and… await the next destination, at Złombol 2026 edition.
Once again, huge congratulations!
