Why does the WRC have little hope of returning to Mexico in the future?

The World Rally Championship has been a flagship event in Mexico for many years, attracting rally fans from around the world to the challenging and scenic roads of Guanajuato. However, the future of the WRC in Mexico seems uncertain due to several factors limiting its viability. Among these factors is the possible inclusion of the United States Rally in the 2026 calendar, along with limitations imposed by the WRC promoter, who has indicated that there is only room for two events in the Americas.

Competition for Calendar Slots

The WRC calendar for 2025 has reached its maximum capacity with 14 rounds, making the inclusion of new events challenging. The WRC promoter has established that there is only room for two events in the Americas, so the inclusion of new countries means others must leave. Currently, the Chile Rally and the Argentina Rally have been strong contenders on the American calendar. If the United States Rally is confirmed for 2026, competition for the few available slots will intensify, significantly reducing the chances of Mexico hosting again.

Impact of the United States Rally

The United States Rally is the main competitor affecting Mexico's hopes of returning to the WRC calendar. Scheduled as a candidate event in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for 2024, this rally is a strong contender for official inclusion in 2026. The location in the United States offers several advantages that make it attractive to the WRC:

• Large Market: The United States represents a significant market for the WRC, with great potential for spectators and sponsors.
• Infrastructure: Chattanooga and its surroundings offer the necessary infrastructure to host an event of this magnitude, from sports facilities to lodging and transportation options.
• Local Support: The event has received strong local and regional support, facilitating its organization and promotion.

Confirmation of the Paraguay Rally

Paraguay has secured a multi-year agreement to host a WRC round starting in 2025. This event will take place in the city of Encarnación, using red gravel roads parallel to the Paraná River. The inclusion of Paraguay reinforces the WRC's strategy of expanding in South America and highlights the country's strong rally tradition.

Status of the Chile Rally

The Chile Rally contract expires at the end of 2024, but discussions are ongoing about a possible extension until 2027. If this contract is renewed, Chile will continue to be an important event on the WRC calendar, securing one of the slots in South America and further complicating Mexico's inclusion.

Situation in Argentina

Argentina, which has not been part of the WRC calendar since 2019, is in talks to rejoin the championship. The WRC promoter has indicated that Argentina is one of the fans' and crews' favorite events due to its rich history and passionate followers. However, the country's economic situation and logistical challenges complicate its immediate return. Discussions are ongoing, and it is expected that Argentina could return to the calendar in the near future.

Economic and Logistical Considerations

The return of the WRC to Mexico depends not only on the availability of slots on the calendar but also on economic and logistical considerations. The geographical proximity and close dates of the events in Chile, Paraguay, and Argentina make these rallies more attractive from a logistical and economic standpoint for the WRC, as they allow for cost reductions by being held in nearby countries within a two-week span. Additionally, the absence of the event in Mexico in recent years may have led many sponsors to direct their funds to other events or motorsport categories. This could complicate the reactivation of the rally in Mexico, as regaining that financial support could be a significant challenge.