Changes in the World Rally Championship for 2027

The FIA World Motor Sport Council has approved the technical regulations that will establish the framework for the World Rally Championship starting in 2027. These rules, known as WRC27, aim to build a championship with more sustainable and accessible foundations for participants.

Cost Reduction and Broader Access

The regulation sets a cost cap of 345,000 euros per car, a significant decrease compared to the current Rally1 cars, which can cost up to one million euros. This adjustment is primarily aimed at facilitating the entry of new teams and independent manufacturers. Costs will be controlled through clear specifications for key components and improvements in the durability of parts used.

Additionally, operational expenses are expected to be reduced through measures such as logistical optimization, personnel limitations, and leveraging local infrastructure. These changes aim to enhance competitiveness without increasing the resources needed to participate.

Modular Design and Flexible Propulsion

The new safety cell chassis, based on the current Rally1 technology, will allow a modular configuration that supports various types of car bodies. From hatchbacks to SUVs and even conceptual models, they will be able to compete under the same technical framework, offering greater diversity on the grid.

Regarding propulsion systems, the regulations allow the incorporation of internal combustion engines using sustainable fuels, hybrid systems, or fully electric technologies. Although the initial standard will be the sustainable combustion engine, the technical flexibility ensures the championship's adaptability to industry trends.

Collaboration with Rallycross

The rules also open the possibility for integration with the World Rallycross Championship, allowing manufacturers to develop vehicles for both championships simultaneously. This could be beneficial in optimizing resources and increasing teams' exposure.

Additionally, the Affordable Cross Car initiative aims to strengthen grassroots off-road motorsport categories, providing an accessible pathway for drivers and teams at entry levels.

Statements on the Future of WRC

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, referred to these regulations as a key element for the continuous development of the championship. Pernilla Solberg, president of the WRC Commission, emphasized the importance of these regulations in encouraging the participation of independent teams on equal terms with established manufacturers.

Malcolm Wilson and Cyril Abiteboul highlighted the importance of cost reduction as a strategy to increase participation and establish a more stable competitive landscape. Jari-Matti Latvala noted that, while the foundations are solid, there is still work to be done to optimize technical details in the near future.