Upcoming WRC 2025 Regulations Agreements

The relationship between the FIA and the vehicle manufacturers is not undergoing a period of conflict regarding the technical regulations for the 2025 World Rally Championship, as stated by Andrew Wheatley, FIA road sport director. According to Wheatley, a harmonious agreement with the manufacturers is being reached, and they are not far from fully achieving it.

The technical rules for the upcoming season have generated uncertainty after the FIA proposed modifications in February. These modifications encompass sporting, technical, and promotional aspects. Toyota, Hyundai, and M-Sport Ford, three of the main teams, have expressed their desire to keep the current Rally1 technical rules, rejecting the modifications which include removing the hybrid system and reducing aerodynamics with changes to the rear wing and air restrictor. The FIA's proposal also suggests introducing an upgrade kit for Rally2 cars, which has been met with skepticism by the manufacturers.

The purpose behind these proposals is to increase competitiveness at the front of the rallies, considering these changes as a preamble to the new Rally1 regulations planned for 2027.
The manufacturers have suggested that the FIA focus on the regulations for 2027, concerned about the short time available and the resources needed to adapt the Rally1 cars. These concerns became apparent during the Rally of Croatia, where team bosses described the situation as critical and requested clarity about the future.

Following a recent WRC Commission meeting, the FIA feels optimistic about reaching a compromise soon, hoping to make a decision before the World Motor Sport Council meeting in June. "We are committed to working with the manufacturers, with all options on the table, and we believe we are close to an agreement," Wheatley stated. He also highlighted that the last date to decide on the technical regulations will be during the meeting of the World Motor Sport Council in June.

Finally, Wheatley clarified that the FIA's intervention is not only due to the need for technical adaptation but also to three critical factors: Pirelli's lack of commitment to a new tyre contract, the drivers' reluctance to compete under the current conditions, and the uncertainty about Ford and Hyundai's future participation.

The WRC Commission has scheduled another meeting on April 25 to continue the discussions.