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Analyzing the Future of World Rally Championship: Insights and Controversies
Technical Updates and Controversies
The fate of World Rally Championship hangs in the balance as the FIA’s WRC Working Group unveils its vision for the next three years. However, the transition of this vision into technical regulations awaits confirmation until June.
Proposed Changes to Rally1 Class
The proposed changes include alterations to the Rally1 class, scheduled for implementation next year, two years ahead of the agreed homologation cycle end. These changes involve the removal of hybrid power from vehicles, alongside performance and aerodynamic adjustments to align them closely with Rally2 cars.
Introduction of “Rally2 Plus” Kit
Additionally, a €5,000 upgrade kit will be introduced for Rally2 cars, creating a “Rally2 Plus” vehicle capable of competing in the top class temporarily. This interim solution will precede the introduction of new Rally1 regulations in 2026, forming the foundation of the top class from 2027 onwards.
Debate on Vision and Direction
The WRC’s future direction sparks debate among stakeholders. While some support the proposed changes, others call for a reevaluation of the sport’s trajectory. Alasdair Lindsay, Colin Clark, and David Evans delve into the intricacies of the WRC Working Group’s proposals, offering diverse perspectives on the sport’s future.
Safari Rally Kenya Anticipation
Meanwhile, excitement mounts for the upcoming Safari Rally Kenya, with the potential for weather conditions to add an element of unpredictability to the competition.
Opposition and Criticism
Despite anticipation for the technical changes, WRC teams have expressed dissatisfaction, with Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville notably opposing the proposed alterations.
Addressing the media for the first time at Safari Rally Kenya, two-time title holder Kalle Rovanpera expressed his dissatisfaction with the changes to the vehicles for 2025, stating that they “made no sense.”
“Sure, it [the cars] will be less [fun to drive] than now. There are some good things about the innovative ideas, but there is also the car thing [changes] which doesn’t make sense to me, to create a big issue for years and spend more money to create two classes that will never be fully equal or connected. “Indeed, I understand they [the FIA] want more cars in the same basic class on the starting grid but that’s it. They should focus now to make the new rules for 2027 and then maybe hopefully we will see new teams coming.” Asked if stability in the regulations was needed, he added: “Exactly, that [stability] has been the issue. So far there has been no real plan for the future, so no new teams come. If you reduce the costs and make the cars whatever you want, but make it for years later – but this transition phase I don’t really know.” It seems most of the Rally1 formula 1 indycar drivers share a similar view. Rovanpera’s Toyota teammate Elfyn Evans also believes the focus should be on 2027. “Personally, I think we should stay as we are and focus on putting on a proper show for 2027,” he said. “I think there is a big task to do to fix this and I think, ultimately there is a commitment for the next years anyway, we should forget about what’s happening in the next two years and make a proper plan for 2027.” Hyundai’s Ott Tanak suggested that the decision to make changes for the next year was “working against” manufacturers. “It doesn’t matter what the drivers say, it is more about keeping the manufacturers happy,” he said.
“We have already limited manufacturers right now and even with the situation of where we are currently, we are working against the manufacturers that are sticking to the sport, which is a bit strange way of behaving.”
