The New 2024 WRC Points System

The FIA, in its constant quest to keep the WRC vibrant and competitive, has decided to implement a points system that challenges drivers to give their best until the last second of the event. This is reflected in the recent publication of the WRC sporting regulations for 2024, where this new scoring system is detailed.

Under the new regime, points will be awarded on an 18-15-13-10-8-6-4-3-2-1 scale at the end of Saturday's classification, but only if a team reaches the final classification of the rally at the end of Sunday. This decision is a change that promises to add an additional dimension to the teams' strategy. There will be tension in the air, as teams fight not only to finish the race but also to optimally position themselves for Sunday.

The most notable change is that championship points will now specifically be awarded for Sunday's performance. This seeks to prevent drivers from taking the last day easy, conserving tires for the power stage at the end of the rally. Now, they will duel for a maximum of seven points on Sunday, awarded to the top seven competitors on a 7-6-5-4-3-2-1 scale. The power stage, an exciting stage that has always been the climax of the rally, will remain crucial, as the five fastest drivers will receive bonus points, with five points being the maximum.

But here's the twist: a driver can complete a perfect rally and continue to score a total of 30 points, just as in the previous regulations. However, the fascinating part is that, in theory, a driver could win the rally without getting the full seven points on Sunday or even a competitor could score more points than the rally winner.

For the World Rally Championships for Manufacturers, Drivers, and Co-Drivers, points will be awarded for each rally considering the overall classification after Saturday. If a team is not classified in the Final Classification of the rally, the next competitor will move up to score points.

Additionally, there is an interesting change in the regulations for Rally1 cars. They can now compete without a hybrid unit, but they will not be eligible to score manufacturers' championship points and must run with a dummy hybrid unit (ballast) that is mounted in the same position and weighs the same as a functional hybrid unit. The engine change regulation has also been modified, allowing for the replacement of a damaged engine as long as the number of engines authorized in article 17.1.1 is not exceeded.

This new points system is undoubtedly a reflection of the constant evolution of motorsport and its adaptation to the demands of modern times. While some traditions are maintained, such as determining the rally winner by the total time of the event, the FIA is clearly willing to experiment and innovate to maintain the relevance and appeal of the WRC.