WRC: Towards shorter rallies?

Le WRC needs changes. Lots of changes. Even if they are sometimes in deep disagreement, all parties (crews, team, FIA, promoter, etc.) recognize this. When the list of debated transformations is presented, it is possible to say that the WRC will succeed in getting through this gloomy period and emerge stronger. The problem is that the planned schedule plunges into great depression. Everything is going to take so long...

Despite the urgency, it is very complicated to imagine the first effects next year or then in a minimalist way. The mode of operation of the FIA ​​with its commissions, the World Council, the votes... in short the cogs of an enormous federal building seem to prevent the rapid realization of decisions which, on paper, nevertheless appear simple to implement. It all depends on their content. Some must be voted on by the World Council and if it refuses, they must be proposed again after having received modifications.

This is what should happen for this idea submitted to the last CM and which was rejected. This should allow the organizers to define shorter itineraries. Today, rallies must measure at least 300 km and they can go up to 350. In some countries, it is not easy to reach these totals and it happens that a route includes special stages very early on Sunday morning to add the regulatory kilometers, which requires commissioners, officials and teams to get up even earlier. Reducing this total isn't just done with possible late nights in mind. By having “only” 250 km to cover, this would offer greater flexibility in the division. It should also be noted that this would not lock the entire calendar into the same mold and that events like the Monte-Carlo or the Safari could keep their timing extended.

Beyond the facilities offered to organizers, this measure would be the first to trigger a whole series of changes. Indeed, with fewer timed kilometers, a rally could start later. After carrying out the starting ceremony on Thursday evening, the shakedown would take place on Friday and the first SS on Friday afternoon. After a busy Saturday, Sunday morning would be solely devoted to the Power Stage and at 13:00 p.m. the round would be over. When this type of division occurs, it will be possible to consider changing the points scale for the Power Stage in particular. As it is extremely complicated to modify certain rules during the year, because the agreement of all stakeholders is required, it is almost unlikely to see this come to fruition in 2024. This is one of the reasons which causes this feeling of disappointment to see that even if the WRC is going through a period of gloom, nothing will really bring a little fresh air for one or two seasons. Sad.