2016 Rally China canceled

Last week, the first rumors of a threat to the Rally of China had emerged on the internet, following series of photos showing the roads, initially planned to host the Asian event from September 9 to 11, largely damaged.

The promoter of the World Rally Championship then told us to undertake with the FIA “all necessary discussions and negotiations with the organizer to ensure that the event goes ahead. The promoter and the FIA ​​were in China last week to carry out all the necessary investigations and come up with a contingency plan. »

Yet this Tuesday, officials from WRC have indeed confirmed the cancellation of the Chinese round. In question, « heavy damage to roads caused by torrential storms and flooding last month in the area around Huairou, near Beijing, where the rally was to be held, specifies the WRC press release.

Despite a last minute visit to China last week by FIA and promoter representatives, and the best efforts of all parties involved, it was impossible to undertake the necessary repairs to ensure the rally could be contested safely. .

According to the Chinese federation and Le Sports (rally organizer), the weather left portions of the road, to be used as special stages, with major repair work to be carried out. The region's Road Administration Authority has confirmed that this cannot be completed before reconnaissance for the rally begins. » These floods also led to significant evacuations of residents and the implementation of emergency measures.

The WRC promoter also indicated that the Chinese round would not be replaced on the calendar, leaving the 2016 season with 13 rallies on the program. The event was to make its return after 17 years of absence.