WRC desperately seeks revival

Precipitous removal of the hybrid system and new aero kit from 2025, new Rally1 in 2026, nebulous attempt at a Rally2+ category without logic, overhaul of the events for more originality, rethinking of the promotion... With urgency as a guide, the world rally championship is pulling in all directions, but will it hit its target? His survival depends on it.

Published on 06/03/2024 à 18:30

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Adrien Fourmaux during the last Rally of Sweden - Photo: Nikos Katikis / DPPI

The scene took place during a meeting at the end of 2023. Drivers and FIA officials were gathered and a person occupying an important position in the very highest spheres whispered in the ear of one of the lucky holders of an elite program: “Next year, you better enjoy your races with your Rally1. The following season, we will move on to Rally2. » The message had the merit of being clear. It perfectly summed up a trend that ultimately did not materialize.

On paper, this change of category seemed logical and, above all, very easy. It was enough to put the Rally1s in the museum and impose the Rally2s instead. Assuming that no technical difference was decided between an official car and that of a private driver, there could have been more than 20 cars at the start of the events... but that will not happen.

The Rally2s stay on their floor

After pushing in this direction to find THE solution to lower costs, the members of the working group* realized that no one wanted a battle between Rally2. Worse, this forceful passage could have had