2025 WRC News & Rumours

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Sordo to return in (4th) Hyundai for Greece & Sardinia, quotes from Neuville ...

https://rallyjournal.com/a-big-revelation-from-thierry-neuville-about-his-teams-upcoming-tactics/


Also, the F1 star who tested a Rally1 Car is revealed... and it wasn't Bottas ! ;)

https://rallyjournal.com/name-of-f1-star-who-took-part-in-extremely-secret-rally-tests-leaked-to-the-public-he-was-incredibly-good/

[WRCStan]

Also, the F1 star who tested a Rally1 Car is revealed... and it wasn't Bottas ! ;)

https://rallyjournal.com/name-of-f1-star-who-took-part-in-extremely-secret-rally-tests-leaked-to-the-public-he-was-incredibly-good/

Props to the user here who reported it at the time.

[106 sport]

Interesting interview with the hero from Gran Canaria, Luís Monzón
https://www.wrc.com/en/news/luis-monzon-returns-to-wrc-at-rally-islas-canarias

[Managarium]

TOO MUCH WEAR?!
The WRC crews will have 8 more tires in Rally Portugal so the total available for each car goes from 28 to 36 (shakedown included).
This change was made official through the “Bulletin 1” of the event.
Considering that two more sets of tires are a lot and this change is important there must be an explanation that could be excessive tire wear.
We have already hypothesized in another post that the Hankook tires are too hard and that in Kenya there were 23 punctures attributable to this robustness but the African event had a soft surface that did not wear the tires excessively.
The triptych of gravel roads arriving Portugal-Sardinia-Greece instead has a lot of wear and higher temperatures that could lead to problems with the integrity of the tires.
In support of OUR hypothesis there would be the length of the special stages in Portugal:
24 special stages with maximum lengths of 15 km with the exception of the Amarante stage which will be 24.
However, the Amarante stage has always been 37 km and this shortening combined with the addition of tires make us think.

[WRCStan]

Apologies if this video was shared in another thread, and this is probably the wrong thread for the topic but it's related to a few pages ago where we were having a chat about what a car is and the identity of rally (sofas, buggies, crosskarts and side by sides etc..) Here's Rich Millener being recorded at about the same time on side-by-sides: 'I personally think a modified version of this could be the answer to the problems in rally of entry level vehicles'

https://youtu.be/1xsKjcptLjc?t=785

Strongly recommend to watch the whole video, Rich is quite open.

[saco0o]

Also, the F1 star who tested a Rally1 Car is revealed... and it wasn't Bottas ! ;)

https://rallyjournal.com/name-of-f1-star-who-took-part-in-extremely-secret-rally-tests-leaked-to-the-public-he-was-incredibly-good/

a few websites are covering this, Lando said it wasnt him.
https://racingnews365.com/norris-responds-to-rally-rumours-hopefully-that-will-become-a-headline

"I said a couple of years ago, I'm not allowed. Zak [Brown, McLaren CEO] doesn't let me drive rally cars, probably for a good reason, but I've said many times I would love to. It's so weird how people come up with such things in the media. That's how terrible it is sometimes, rather than just asking me before publishing things."

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Surprise driver for top-tier Rally1 car in Portugal:

https://rallyjournal.com/source-surprise-driver-for-top-tier-rally1-car-and-a-hint-at-hyundais-plans/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ben Sulayem proposes Malcolm Wilson as Robert Reid's successor at FIA...

https://www.autosport.com/general/news/malcolm-wilson-nominated-as-new-fia-deputy-presidential-candidate/10716162/

[Sal yet again]

https://www.autosport.com/general/news/malcolm-wilson-nominated-as-new-fia-deputy-presidential-candidate/10716162/

Wonder whether having given Malcolm/M Sport so much trade over the years MBS will think him "loyal to the cause"

[Rallyper]

https://www.autosport.com/general/news/malcolm-wilson-nominated-as-new-fia-deputy-presidential-candidate/10716162/

Wonder whether having given Malcolm/M Sport so much trade over the years MBS will think him "loyal to the cause"

In the way he should. Loyal to the manufacturers best.

[saco0o]

and so far no one is on the run for fia's election this year against mbs
which is kinda weird because he is NOT doing a good job, everybody knows that... but apparently his money (intimidation???) can buy all the votes. idk, i dont like this guy. it sounds "islamophobic" but its not that. its just....it always something stupid.
like these new MEDALS they are going to give to WRC race winners. "ohh they are made of recycled metals"
ok... but if you DONT PRODUCE these pointless medal, you would release LESS Co2!! how about that? its even MORE GREEN than recycled metals!!! nope... medals for everyone! screw the emissions! haha its all a big dumb hypocrital PR machine.

[WRCStan]

https://www.autosport.com/general/news/malcolm-wilson-nominated-as-new-fia-deputy-presidential-candidate/10716162/

Wonder whether having given Malcolm/M Sport so much trade over the years MBS will think him "loyal to the cause"

That's one of the most beautifully worded posts I've read on this forum. Not saying I agree, but well done.

[Managarium]

AG Rally:

Total Energies has raised the price of fuel to €8.75 per litre excluding VAT, creating discontent in the circus since the previous price, of P1 Fuels, was €6.96 per litre.
The price increase was validated by the Rally of the Canary Islands, that is, since Total Energies took over from P1 Fuels as the sole supplier of fuel for the WRC.
The new price has been increased by 25% which has a significant economic impact:
•WRC teams purchase fuel in blocks of 50L. Now each block of 50L costs €437.50.
•Considering that on average an event consumes between 450 and 500L of fuel, each team spends approximately €4000 plus VAT for each car.
*Quantity of fuel and total price may vary from event to event.
TotalEnergies will supply fuel at these prices until the end of the season, meanwhile the FIA ​​is looking for a single fuel supplier for the three-year period 2026-2028 through a tender.

[tbazsi95]

Technical rules for the next WRC regulations cycle still aren't set in stone ��

But the FIA remains optimistic that the 2027 regulations are going to attract interest from new entrants ��

2628

[saco0o]

ouchhhhh i always forget how expensive motorsport is, jeeeez

[Eli]

Technical rules for the next WRC regulations cycle still aren't set in stone ��

But the FIA remains optimistic that the 2027 regulations are going to attract interest from new entrants ��

2628

So basically they remain confident that Hyundai are out for next year…do wonder who will take their place, doubt any of the VW Group bandwagon will comeback; Although could you believe it’s almost been 10 years(!] since dieselgate?

[denkimi]

AG Rally:

Total Energies has raised the price of fuel to €8.75 per litre excluding VAT, creating discontent in the circus since the previous price, of P1 Fuels, was €6.96 per litre.
The price increase was validated by the Rally of the Canary Islands, that is, since Total Energies took over from P1 Fuels as the sole supplier of fuel for the WRC.
The new price has been increased by 25% which has a significant economic impact:
•WRC teams purchase fuel in blocks of 50L. Now each block of 50L costs €437.50.
•Considering that on average an event consumes between 450 and 500L of fuel, each team spends approximately €4000 plus VAT for each car.
*Quantity of fuel and total price may vary from event to event.
TotalEnergies will supply fuel at these prices until the end of the season, meanwhile the FIA ​​is looking for a single fuel supplier for the three-year period 2026-2028 through a tender.
This seems like one of the things that could easily be changed to make things cheaper. Just make them use normal, commercial fuel. Nobody will notice the difference in performance, and they all save a lot of money.

[saco0o]

This seems like one of the things that could easily be changed to make things cheaper. Just make them use normal, commercial fuel. Nobody will notice the difference in performance, and they all save a lot of money.

i may be wrong but..... FIA needs to pretend the championship is GREEN and run on 'clean fuels'.
i doubt thats going to change. its easier to say 'race car polutes' instead of talking about how overseas rounds are the top emission's cause, how traveling around europe in huge trucks and vans polutes more than the actual races, how fan dslocation polutes etc.

[WRCStan]

i may be wrong but..... FIA needs to pretend the championship is GREEN and run on 'clean fuels'.

Correct. It can change but will need the competitors to stop entering like how the hybrid costs made them face reality. The fuel costs are a competitor cost which need to be passed on through diminished entry lists.

[Eli]

In unrelated news, it seems USA will host a rally next year: https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/usa-in-the-frame-to-join-wrc-calendar-in-2026/10716979/

If they do join we’ll have a 15 event calendar.

[rallyfiend]

Correct. It can change but will need the competitors to stop entering like how the hybrid costs made them face reality. The fuel costs are a competitor cost which need to be passed on through diminished entry lists.

Entry lists aren't diminished though....

Everyone wants more manufacturers, well they certainly won't come - or develop rally cars for customer use - if they are not running on sustainabile fuel in the future.

That's just a fact everyone needs to accept.

[deephouse]

In unrelated news, it seems USA will host a rally next year: https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/usa-in-the-frame-to-join-wrc-calendar-in-2026/10716979/

If they do join we’ll have a 15 event calendar.

Strange we have no interests from manfacturers but in regard of events there are more than ever was. I'm just concerned that those smart pals from head of sport will sacrifice legendary proven events for those newcomers just because money filling their pockets.

[Eli]

Strange we have no interests from manfacturers but in regard of events there are more than ever was. I'm just concerned that those smart pals from head of sport will sacrifice legendary proven events for those newcomers just because money filling their pockets.
They already have, no Corsica, no Wales, no Argentina, but Saudi Arabia for 10 years? yes please, Japan being one of the most boring tarmac events, of course, Toyota are involved, can’t say no. Indonesia of all places looking for a slot? Sure, I’m not expecting them to keep the same calendar for years on end but I can’t say Latvia was particularly interesting and it has a 2 year ready contract for 2027-2028…

[WRCStan]

Entry lists aren't diminished though....

Then there's not enough 'discontent in the circus' to force change.


Everyone wants more manufacturers, well they certainly won't come - or develop rally cars for customer use - if they are not running on sustainabile fuel in the future.

That's just a fact everyone needs to accept.

That's not a fact.

[deephouse]

They already have, no Corsica, no Wales, no Argentina, but Saudi Arabia for 10 years? yes please, Japan being one of the most boring tarmac events, of course, Toyota are involved, can’t say no. Indonesia of all places looking for a slot? Sure, I’m not expecting them to keep the same calendar for years on end but I can’t say Latvia was particularly interesting and it has a 2 year ready contract for 2027-2028…

So we can expect in the future no Monte, Sweden, probably Portugal... and Toyota competing against themselves with 10 drivers. Ineresting

[Eli]

So we can expect in the future no Monte, Sweden, probably Portugal... and Toyota competing against themselves with 10 drivers. Ineresting

Mind you Monte-Carlo wasn’t in the calendar between 2009-2011, Portugal came back after 6 years in 2007, and even Sweden isn’t bulletproof…a lack of snow in the future will post a problem. Toyota are already competing against themselves as we can see this weekend…

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Interesting interview with Kalle on the reason for his Canarias pace, gravel struggles and the difference with the non-hybrid car...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rovanpera-not-expecting-to-suddenly-be-dominant

[denkimi]

Interesting interview with Kalle on the reason for his Canarias pace, gravel struggles and the difference with the non-hybrid car...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rovanpera-not-expecting-to-suddenly-be-dominant
I would say he had the spectacular pace because hyundai and ford sucked, evans didn't wanted to push to the max, and ogier is getting old.

[Sulland]

Is this for real, or russian clickbate trolling?

https://news.humatl.com/kalle-rovanpera-leaves-wrc-in-shockeven-legend-sbastien-ogier-admits-its-beyond-imagination-vothiyenlinh/?utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwY2xjawKGtqVleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETA1TVVva DRKOFA2bTZVSjlIAR64vw7PW_IOp1Z9sInHvhEr9rhax2t2b72 56JZlsiTX4cRrVJFEoOAUsR4lMg_aem_XSGvrZoHwo--KbvnQzBDwQ

[Rallyper]

Is this for real, or russian clickbate trolling?

https://news.humatl.com/kalle-rovanpera-leaves-wrc-in-shockeven-legend-sbastien-ogier-admits-its-beyond-imagination-vothiyenlinh/?utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwY2xjawKGtqVleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETA1TVVva DRKOFA2bTZVSjlIAR64vw7PW_IOp1Z9sInHvhEr9rhax2t2b72 56JZlsiTX4cRrVJFEoOAUsR4lMg_aem_XSGvrZoHwo--KbvnQzBDwQ

I guess they telling an18 months old story...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Deleted

[focus206]

I guess the tiny consolation to take from these clickbait articles is that WRC/rallying is at least popular enough for these village "journalists" to make up stories to get clicks. I've never seen it happening for touring car racing, hillclimbing etc.

[WRCStan]

This is wonderful 'AI'. Do us all a favour and delete those links before they start spamming the forum with links.

[EstWRC]

I can tell already by looking at the link it’s not real

Incredible

[saco0o]

this site looks exactly like that one with the breaking news that Evans was quitting WRC to go Wrestling - or something like that

[tbazsi95]

"SOLBERG IN WRC
According to our sources, Oliver Solberg’s return to the WRC is expected to take place in the 2025 Rally Finland aboard the Toyota GR Yaris Rally1.
The step up in category would be part of a development program agreed between both parties at the start of the season and the move to the top class is the reason why Solberg left Skoda at the start of 2025 to sign with Toyota.

Solberg is following a very similar growth program to that of Sami Pajari who in turn jumped into the WRC in the 2024 Rally Chile (September 2024, round 11) while Oliver should do so in Finland in August 2025 in round 9.

Solberg is currently campaigning his WRC2 with Toyota (Printsport team) with whom he takes part in all the rounds of the season to gain as much experience as possible.
The results are good (second position behind Rossel but by virtue of the championship rules it is as if they were on equal points) and evidently his data is convincing the top brass of the WRC team.
Solberg has already competed a full season in the WRC, that is with Hyundai in 2022 where however, perhaps because he was too young or perhaps because the car had so many problems, everything went badly (33 points in 12 events). Now there could be a new opportunity after 2 years of purgatory in the WRC2"

Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ86Pt1syyQ/

[EstWRC]

thats good news, really would like to see what he can do in a good car. IMO he was very unfortunate to make his debut season in that crap 22 Hyundai

[deephouse]

Only Latvala is missed and then we would have 1-2-3-4-5-6-7 at the end of rally finland for Toyota :P

[Eli]

Only Latvala is missed and then we would have 1-2-3-4-5-6-7 at the end of rally finland for Toyota :P

Who knows? Maybe this year he’ll try a Rally3 Toyota, oh wait, there isn’t one, never mind.

[deephouse]

The wrc should allow old spec cars who competed in championship. Have simultaneously cup for historic cars like delta, quattro, mg zr, xsara, 206,... And put some old legends in it. I bet there would be crowds at events. And also boost wrc recognition again. But I fear that those cars would steal the show against this modern Rally1 machines.

[meh]

The wrc should allow old spec cars who competed in championship. Have simultaneously cup for historic cars like delta, quattro, mg zr, xsara, 206,... And put some old legends in it. I bet there would be crowds at events. And also boost wrc recognition again. But I fear that those cars would steal the show against this modern Rally1 machines.

For sure, there is nostalgia involved for that idea, but it comes with some side effects.

There have been historic cars competing with the same event as WRC cars, and the result is - they are using so different lines and mess up the road that much, that the first on the road for 2nd loop need to do the massive cleaning again. For example, in Estonia, there was a similar problem with trucks. So old cars could only compete on the road after 2nd loop.

Also, depending on the rally, the number of cars passing the road may get too high and cause some logistical challenges - every stage is live too long time.

[saco0o]

is my second language (english) not understind his second language (english) properly or this post was a little bit too harsh?
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02ySVEfXehZDCEQhbGqD jtyeU29D86aBchDSDiG7Ct6wBMe2XcFZmDuWdufXzV82fyl&id=61571478364133

[wyler]

is my second language (english) not understind his second language (english) properly or this post was a little bit too harsh?
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02ySVEfXehZDCEQhbGqD jtyeU29D86aBchDSDiG7Ct6wBMe2XcFZmDuWdufXzV82fyl&id=61571478364133

It's just a way to generate more reactions and comments on social media. trying to be the agent provocateur.
Look at the comments, it is not really well received

[WRCStan]

is my second language (english) not understind his second language (english) properly or this post was a little bit too harsh?
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02ySVEfXehZDCEQhbGqD jtyeU29D86aBchDSDiG7Ct6wBMe2XcFZmDuWdufXzV82fyl&id=61571478364133

You can be as harsh as you want when you talk such delusional simpleton shite. Facebook really is a toilet.

[deephouse]

When Hyundai will leave there will be plenty of drivers who could take a seat at M-Sport and will do it for cheap or probably for free. They will jist accept that the car will be slower and that's it. Almost guaranteed that 2026 will be boring.

[rallyfiend]

https://rallyjournal.com/major-shake-up-looming-for-the-world-rally-championship-swedish-giant-poised-to-take-over-the-series/

The original article:
https://news.sky.com/story/buyout-firm-eqt-revs-up-500m-bid-for-world-rally-promoter-13378163

[Rallyper]

https://rallyjournal.com/major-shake-up-looming-for-the-world-rally-championship-swedish-giant-poised-to-take-over-the-series/

The original article:
https://news.sky.com/story/buyout-firm-eqt-revs-up-500m-bid-for-world-rally-promoter-13378163

Well, hope it´s not going same way as rights for football, etz... Making you put five times the money spent today, to be able to watch rallies in the future.

[AndyRAC]

Private equity firm - what could possibly go wrong.........????

[saco0o]

Private equity firm - what could possibly go wrong.........????

what? its perfect!
- buy it for 500m
- make it INCREDIBLE
- sell it after 5 years for 2.5 bilions!

WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO WRONG?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Rumour of Oliver Solberg doing Rally Finland in a Rally1 GR Yaris...

https://rallyjournal.com/major-rumours-surround-oliver-solberg-and-rally-finland-the-swede-kept-his-cards-close-to-his-chest/

[saco0o]

carlos sainz not running for fia presidency =[

[AndyRAC]

Not a massive surprise, and I don't blame him for pulling out.

And remember, the FiA, isn't just about F1/ Motorsport, as too many people think.

https://www.fia.com/members/member_club/sport-1/member_club/sport-mobility-3?f_0=

[saco0o]

ogier is doing an autocross race in france on july 13, at St Laurent
he raced AX 2 years ago (dani sordo was there too) on the top class (super buggy) and won the event. suuuure, he was on the Florent Tafani's super buggy that won the european championship title one year earlier hehe for 2025 he will race with Vojtěch Vaculík's car.
it is the same chassis brand (Alfa Racing from Czechia), but with a Porsche engine"
this video of the test is in porici nad sazavou, Czechia

https://www.instagram.com/p/DLqCsj9ubFr/

[flat_right]

https://rallyjournal.com/big-promise-from-juha-kankkunen-to-sebastien-ogier/

Kankkunen says that Ogier can drive any rally he wants.

[saco0o]

Alpine releasing an electric A290 car for the e-Rally5 class. Opel released a model for this class too in may or something like that.

[WRCStan]

More news on the FIA President vs the World front: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/articles/c1jw82zwrjzo

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Alpine reveals new all-electric rally car...

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/alpine-reveals-new-all-electric-rally-car/10738850/

The new A290 Rallye car is built in line with the FIA’s eRally5 regulations and is set to make its competition debut this year and at public debut at Goodwood this week.

This may be interesting...

"Alpine says that the A290 Rallye will include an innovative system that will enable the car to emit a sound that correlates with the vehicle's speed and throttle position.'

[Fast Eddie WRC]

This is more like it...

Two years on from its debut, this latest version of the Hydrogen-fuelled H2 Toyota Yaris will be demonstrated on July 31 in the Rally of Finland by Juha Kankkunen.

Lots of noise but zero-emissions from the internal combustion engine !

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GvVDyx-XYAANc6s?format=jpg&name=medium

[saco0o]

when they showcased this car a few years ago it was NOT at 'rally2' levels, right?

seeing this makes me think about the new 27car, if it is really at 'rally2' levels as they suggest (?), this is the type of stuff i'd like to see. that vs paddon electric car vs skoda building whatever they want vs some regular ICE cars from msport or the other 'builders'.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

when they showcased this car a few years ago it was NOT at 'rally2' levels, right?

seeing this makes me think about the new 27car, if it is really at 'rally2' levels as they suggest (?), this is the type of stuff i'd like to see. that vs paddon electric car vs skoda building whatever they want vs some regular ICE cars from msport or the other 'builders'.

Yep, the previous one was the modified road car version.

I dont think this one will be their '27 Car though as it'll be the spaceframe chassis with ICE power first. But they could change it to be Hydrogen powered in future if that's what they want to promote.

[saco0o]

hope ewrc results keep track of their times cuz i bet we are not going to find anything on wrc official

[Steve Boyd]

But they could change it to be Hydrogen powered in future if that's what they want to promote.I'd be interested to know the difference in power output of the same capacity ICE engine run on petrol compared with hydrogen. If both fuels are allowed in ICE engines in future will we need some form of power equalization between them, like different boost pressures or different restrictor diameters?

[BleAivano]

Well, hope it´s not going same way as rights for football, etz... Making you put five times the money spent today, to be able to watch rallies in the future.

There are other interested in buying too, one from Italy which is Prada heir Lorentzo Bertelli and one from Saudi Arabia which consists of a group of undisclosed business men from SA . https://www.emotorsport.se/nyheter.php?in=2&nyhets_id=27256

[Doon]

Any news about the 2026 calender? WRC seems to be very slow compared to other series.

What I really want to know is the date for Rally Croatia 2026 as I've seen some decent flights and want to make a family holiday of it.

[Eli]

Any news about the 2026 calender? WRC seems to be very slow compared to other series.

What I really want to know is the date for Rally Croatia 2026 as I've seen some decent flights and want to make a family holiday of it.

They were supposed to release it in July, but due to USA (apparentaly), it's delayed, they want stability in the calendar but if I'd had to guess, Croatia will probably take it's usual April slot, I think that's also what they said when they confirmed that this year they'll be in October in the ERC and then back to the WRC as they were, but I may be wrong; and yes, WRC calendar is always the slowest of the bunch, even when the entirety of the last decade (2010-2019) they barely made any changes for their 13 events.

[WRCStan]

Rally Saudi will run Wednesday (SSS) to Saturday.

[Eli]

Anyone has any news regarding next year's calendar? I mean, most (if not all) events are signed...so if we know USA won't make it...can't they at least publish a draft calendar?

[BleAivano]

It seems Aberdeen is interested in hosting a WRC round from 2027 to 2029. The article is perhaps a quite optimistic IMO, but personally quite not convinced. Some quotes below.

Like
Official bid being prepared to bring World Rally Championships to Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray

This could see the racing event be secured for three years starting from 2027.


Aberdeen council chiefs are revving up to bring the World Rally Championships to the north-east for the first time – with an official bid poised to be submitted.


And next week council finance bosses could move a step closer to landing the lucrative event with a formal bid being prepared.


There are also suggestions that money from a proposed tourist tax could help to fund the event.

Aren't the last two quotes a bit contradictory? Isn't tourist tax is a way to prevent being overwhelmed by tourists? In that case they want to use money from an anti tourist tax to host an event in a way to bring in more tourists? if so, I do like the logic. :D


https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/aberdeen-aberdeenshire/6817786/world-rally-championships-aberdeen/?hss_channel=fbp-153054651388736

[WRCStan]

Anyone has any news regarding next year's calendar? I mean, most (if not all) events are signed...so if we know USA won't make it...can't they at least publish a draft calendar?

They were supposed to release it in July, but due to USA (apparentaly), it's delayed, they want stability in the calendar but if I'd had to guess, Croatia will probably take it's usual April slot, I think that's also what they said when they confirmed that this year they'll be in October in the ERC and then back to the WRC as they were, but I may be wrong; and yes, WRC calendar is always the slowest of the bunch, even when the entirety of the last decade (2010-2019) they barely made any changes for their 13 events.

[Eli]

Speaking of the devil: https://www.wrc.com/en/news/2026-fia-world-rally-championship-calendar
Instead of having a run of gravel events between April & October, from Estonia in July onwards, it’s gravel all the way.

[Morte66]

"Crucially, the decision to reposition Rally Japan into a May slot adds a meaningful sporting benefit. By interrupting what would otherwise be a long sequence of gravel rallies"

Well, Japan is after Portugal. Then it's Acropolis, Estonia, Finland, Paraguay, Chile, Italia (Sardegna?), Saudi Arabia. Are any of those not gravel?

[denkimi]

As I see it there are only 3 tarmac rallies? With Japan being the last in may already.

[Morte66]

As I see it there are only 3 tarmac rallies? With Japan being the last in may already.

Unless that suspiciously-named "Rally Italia" turns out to be tarmac, I think there is no tarmac in the second half of the season.

[EstWRC]

It won’t be tarmac, in FIAs post about the calendar it’s marked as gravel.

Great to see Croatia back but yeah it’s now ridiculous that we have all the tarmac rallies in the first half of the season.

[Andre Oliveira]

Italia will be Roma tarmac by the last rumours.

[Eli]

It won’t be tarmac, in FIAs post about the calendar it’s marked as gravel.

Great to see Croatia back but yeah it’s now ridiculous that we have all the tarmac rallies in the first half of the season.

Still no Corsica or Wales or Argentina (which I understand barely have a penny) or even Australia :(

[denkimi]

Italia will be Roma tarmac by the last rumours.
I hope so.

[Humber]

Still no Corsica or Wales or Argentina (which I understand barely have a penny) or even Australia :(

Milei and others have helped turn the Argentine economy around. 5.5% GDP expected in 2025.

Australia is mostly interested in V8 engines. TCR is close to folding, with meetings cancelled this year.

[Danny0405]

7 Gravel rounds in a row to end the Championship… not a good idea considering road position stuff

[EstWRC]

Here we go, Ogier considering going for a title

https://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/sebastien-ogier-wont-rule-out-wrc-title-push-/10746968/

[saco0o]

any infos on the Hydrogen car Toyota was running in Suomi? i found two clips but its from 6 days ago, so NOT at the event itself?

[Eli]

"Crucially, the decision to reposition Rally Japan into a May slot adds a meaningful sporting benefit. By interrupting what would otherwise be a long sequence of gravel rallies"

Well, Japan is after Portugal. Then it's Acropolis, Estonia, Finland, Paraguay, Chile, Italia (Sardegna?), Saudi Arabia. Are any of those not gravel?

They want to add another round in Asia after or before Japan in 2027, hence the reason for moving Rally Japan to May:
https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/the-factors-behind-the-wrc-2026-calendar-reshuffle/10748665/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

any infos on the Hydrogen car Toyota was running in Suomi? i found two clips but its from 6 days ago, so NOT at the event itself?

It did a demo run on the Harju SSS and Kankkunen said he was 7th fastest (in WRC2 I presume)...

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMyONqVM0ht/?igsh=M3VidnRtNzJ5M3Rz

[pedro16]

It did a demo run on the Harju SSS and Kankkunen said he was 7th fastest (in WRC2 I presume)...

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMyONqVM0ht/?igsh=M3VidnRtNzJ5M3Rz

Not 7th fastest. He was 7 times fastest there during his career. He joked about being fastest there again because of being the only one in the hydrogen class.

[Sulland]

Soon no privateer will be able to get together a budget for WRC2 or 3, since FIA will do the same as Infantino in FIFA, move away from Europe, to get easier customers that do not say NO, and are critical to the president!!
Many national representatives in many sports and the olympic movememt are taking bribes when it comes to elections for presidents!

[Duvel]

https://www.rallye-magazin.de/wrc/artikel/kehrt-die-rallye-deutschland-mit-dem-nuerburgring-zurueck-53970/

I hope this could come true!

[wyler]

let's do "f1 tracks" wrc round adding spa. it's not far from previous edition wrc germany and belgium. would be great!

[Eli]

Although we saw how ridiculous it was when WRC cars hit the track back in 2021, however, if this gets Rally Germany back in the calendar, I’m all for it!

[Tauri_J]

let's do "f1 tracks" wrc round adding spa. it's not far from previous edition wrc germany and belgium. would be great!

Spa was ridicilous. WRC cars are too slow for proper race tracks.

[wyler]

Spa was ridicilous. WRC cars are too slow for proper race tracks.

don't think so...a lot of minor track racers don't hit 200 kmh as wrc car. years of rally show at monza proves that can be viable for a cuple of ss.
i think it's more about how to use the track as a stage. spa was ridicolous because they set up a micky mouse stage in it, they even used only half of eau rouge, that was of course ridiculous!

[Sal yet again]

Race circuit usage is nothing new as witnessed by RAC rallies of old who often used tracks such as Silverstone, Oulton Park and Donnington however only as part of the stage with lots of infield usage. Old Portugese rallies used to feature an end of event "slalom" including some of the teams' service barges!

[AndyRAC]

Run the Nordschleife the 'wrong way' (as they do annually) and split it into two stages - just use the Dottinger Hohe as the liason between two stages. Funnily enough, I'm watching NLS #6 at the moment.

[NaBUru38]

Marathon de la Route?

[denkimi]

Spa was ridicilous. WRC cars are too slow for proper race tracks.
I want to see them drive eau rouge downwards.

[Eli]

After nearly a year since the news broke out: https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/new-wrc-promoter-coming-as-fia-opens-tender/
Some news!

[Steve Boyd]

Malcolm Wilson added: “The FIA World Rally Championship, is the longest-running motorsport series of its kind
What??

Has he never heard of the European Rally Championship?

Or does he mean only world rally championships when he says "of its kind"?

[trykmann]

https://rallyjournal.com/toyota-has-outright-embarrassed-its-biggest-rival-in-the-world-rally-championship-you-can-make-your-own-assumptions/

Fowler says they already had 3 jokers left and have nothing much to develop anymore. Does Hyundai have anymore left?

If they have, then I can see a good opportunity for them. They aren't far behind anymore and if they can figure out the tyre and balance issues, then the cars can be quite equal.

[TWRC]

https://rallyjournal.com/toyota-has-outright-embarrassed-its-biggest-rival-in-the-world-rally-championship-you-can-make-your-own-assumptions/

Fowler says they already had 3 jokers left and have nothing much to develop anymore. Does Hyundai have anymore left?

If they have, then I can see a good opportunity for them. They aren't far behind anymore and if they can figure out the tyre and balance issues, then the cars can be quite equal.

I think Hyundai used their 2025 and also some of the 26 Jokers for the "new" car.

[pedro16]

I think Hyundai used their 2025 and also some of the 26 Jokers for the "new" car.

Hyundai used them all for the 2025 car. But FIA granted 2 extra jokers for everyone next year.

[flat_right]

https://youtu.be/SvENYsCsKT0?si=xYaoPsPOzcpxxbK8&t=133

Who is he talking about?

[Eli]

https://youtu.be/SvENYsCsKT0?si=xYaoPsPOzcpxxbK8&t=133

Who is he talking about?
If I had to guess, he’s talking about (all?) the Hyundai drivers.

[Eli]

https://youtu.be/SvENYsCsKT0?si=xYaoPsPOzcpxxbK8&t=133

Who is he talking about?

The more interesting things being said here is Fourmaux talking about reverting to the ‘24 car but even more interesting and is probably a sign of things to come is Neuville’s comments about team members leaving the team in the last few months…I’m starting to think that despite them confirming it after Greece we might not get to see them for ‘26…

[flat_right]

The more interesting things being said here is Fourmaux talking about reverting to the ‘24 car but even more interesting and is probably a sign of things to come is Neuville’s comments about team members leaving the team in the last few months…I’m starting to think that despite them confirming it after Greece we might not get to see them for ‘26…

Yeah, that also.

About Neuville, he also said that they now have "more insurance" about future but it is hard to "start the machine again, it takes time".

[macebig]

Think Hyundai will continue for 26. Probably a minimal effort (and maybe that's why Tanak keeps his options open), but that should be it. They are definitely out from 2027 onwards.

[flat_right]

Think Hyundai will continue for 26. Probably a minimal effort (and maybe that's why Tanak keeps his options open), but that should be it. They are definitely out from 2027 onwards.

Hyundai is continuing in 26, it has already been confirmed. Minimal effort? No. Minimal would have been when they would have let some other to run the team (rumour was that Neuville was going to do that). They really planned to leave, this is why so many workers left Hyundai but they changed their mind and now they are trying to get things moving again for 2026.

[macebig]

Don't think major development work can be expected for the i20. They already used the jokers they had and regulations are freezing most of the parts for next year anyways. So, they can keep running what they have with Neuville and Fourmaux behind the wheel. Guess if Tanak has no options he will continue with them.

[flat_right]

Don't think major development work can be expected for the i20. They already used the jokers they had and regulations are freezing most of the parts for next year anyways. So, they can keep running what they have with Neuville and Fourmaux behind the wheel. Guess if Tanak has no options he will continue with them.

What are you talking about? In 2026 they have 4 jokers.

[deephouse]

They will use this jokers to improve their tents, buildings, cafeteria and staff jackets :P

[Fast Eddie WRC]

🇮🇹 WRC IN ROME

The WRC Promoter has chosen Rome as the host of the Rally d’Italia starting in 2026, but the move depends on institutional agreements and alignment with the local area. A five-year contract has been signed with the Italian federation.

If the conditions are not met, the debut could be postponed to 2027, but no later, in which case it would be replaced by Sardinia.

The reason for the change is the greater publicity guaranteed by Rome, which is also the capital of the host nation, and this is preferred to the better organization that Sardinia would guarantee. With a world championship so demanding of visibility, the move to Rome is almost inevitable.

Sardinia will not lose the rally: the goal is to transform it into a round of the European Rally Championship (ERC), while still ensuring its prominent role on the international scene.

[bluuford]

Holy crap, another boring rally planned... the spectacle in Sardegna and in Rome is like day and night. Last time I tried to watch ERC Rome, I managed to stay awake ca 4 minutes more than for Rally Canarias... Hope it stays in Sardegna

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Holy crap, another boring rally planned... the spectacle in Sardegna and in Rome is like day and night. Last time I tried to watch ERC Rome, I managed to stay awake ca 4 minutes more than for Rally Canarias... Hope it stays in Sardegna

Tarmac rallies are part of the WRC challenge for drivers.

And having the Championship in a major European capital city will bring great publicity to the sport there.

[Dimitris]

The rally isnt even based in Rome, it's in Fiuggi, 1h and 30 mins away from the capital. It's not that great of a rally, and I don't think it's an upgrade over Sardinia when the only thing it brings to the table is an SSS in Rome.

[deephouse]

I don't get it why they don't consider San Remo at all?

[PLuto]

The rally isnt even based in Rome, it's in Fiuggi, 1h and 30 mins away from the capital. It's not that great of a rally, and I don't think it's an upgrade over Sardinia when the only thing it brings to the table is an SSS in Rome.

If it will be in WRC, base of rally will be in Rome. Fiuggi is too small for WRC circus.

[Andre Oliveira]

I don't get it why they don't consider San Remo at all?

Agree. Old Sanremo would be a great rally.

[bluuford]

Tarmac rallies are part of the WRC challenge for drivers.

And having the Championship in a major European capital city will bring great publicity to the sport there.

It might bring some, but majority of the public interest still comes from TV, various types of Internet related media, basically from something virtual. And when virtual material is boring, then it is the opposite effect. Many people come to see and they disappoint. Replacing one of the most spectacular rallies (one of my favorite powerstage coming down from the dune to the sea-coast) with one of the most unspectacular is definitely not the way to go to make sport more popular. I hope they have common sense and Sardegna remains in the calendar.

[PLuto]

It might bring some, but majority of the public interest still comes from TV, various types of Internet related media, basically from something virtual. And when virtual material is boring, then it is the opposite effect. Many people come to see and they disappoint. Replacing one of the most spectacular rallies (one of my favorite powerstage coming down from the dune to the sea-coast) with one of the most unspectacular is definitely not the way to go to make sport more popular. I hope they have common sense and Sardegna remains in the calendar.

Money rules...

[wyler]

It might bring some, but majority of the public interest still comes from TV, various types of Internet related media, basically from something virtual. And when virtual material is boring, then it is the opposite effect. Many people come to see and they disappoint. Replacing one of the most spectacular rallies (one of my favorite powerstage coming down from the dune to the sea-coast) with one of the most unspectacular is definitely not the way to go to make sport more popular. I hope they have common sense and Sardegna remains in the calendar.

i'd be curious to know the rally Rome map, if u already know it. where will this powerstage be?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

It might bring some, but majority of the public interest still comes from TV, various types of Internet related media, basically from something virtual. And when virtual material is boring, then it is the opposite effect. Many people come to see and they disappoint. Replacing one of the most spectacular rallies (one of my favorite powerstage coming down from the dune to the sea-coast) with one of the most unspectacular is definitely not the way to go to make sport more popular. I hope they have common sense and Sardegna remains in the calendar.

But on the other hand they say the way to build Rallying is to bring it to the people.

And I think more real long-term fans are created by them seeing the cars in action in real life, not by watching them on a screen.

[Rallyest]

So apparantely, Tänak is not scoring manufacturer point for next rally, so they could change his engine without a 5 min penalty

[TypeR]

This shows even more the stupidity of the rule :D nobody cares about the cost of another engine except rules book :D

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Italys WRC round switches to Rome but not until 2027...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/rome-replaces-sardinia-as-italys-wrc-round-from-2027/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

This shows even more the stupidity of the rule :D nobody cares about the cost of another engine except rules book :D

The Rules are made and cant be changed now. But maybe the penalty for another engine should be something else.

A smart move by Hyundai though, theres always another way around it.

Also, Fourmaux is talking about switching to the 2024 Car for Croatia, so how does that work under the Regs ?

[WRCStan]

This shows even more the stupidity of the rule :D nobody cares about the cost of another engine except rules book :D

M-Sport care and they take part.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

In case you didnt see, Fourmaux has entered ERC Rally Croatia next week to test for CER.

[Sal yet again]

Interesting news re Italy as thought that one of the main drivers behind the move to Sardinia was to reduce the size of the crowds. Guess the promoters have seen the passion on display at Rally Legend and decided they want a piece of that. Hope it doesnt backfire!

[WRCStan]

In case you didnt see, Fourmaux has entered ERC Rally Croatia next week to test for CER.

Yet there's no spare car for Tanak for CER. I saw you post about which car Fourmaux'd use... I don't believe there isn't another, especially given the license plates they get through.

[WRCStan]

Interesting news re Italy as thought that one of the main drivers behind the move to Sardinia was to reduce the size of the crowds. Guess the promoters have seen the passion on display at Rally Legend and decided they want a piece of that. Hope it doesnt backfire!

A lot of things can change in 22 years.

[Sal yet again]

True the sport is a fraction of the draw than the last time it was on the Italian mainland

[Fast Eddie WRC]

True the sport is a fraction of the draw than the last time it was on the Italian mainland

Hence why they want to bring the WRC to Rome to get maximum publicity. And if theres a Lancia team by then, even better.

[flat_right]

Yesterday, we had a press conference in Estonia about this year’s Rally Estonia and its economic impact. Here are some key numbers: unique visitors – 54,549; countries represented (visitors, drivers) – 51; revenue – €32 338 027; tax collected from foreign tourists – €3 037 380. That last number is especially important for the government, as they invested €2 million in the rally. The investment generated 1.5 times the amount back in tax revenue – a strong argument for securing government support for future events.

But the biggest takeaway from the press conference was that in the 2026 edition, a young Estonian driver will get a chance to compete in a Rally1 car. This is a joint project between the WRC Promoter, the rally organizers, and key supporters. At the moment, there are three candidates: Virves, Linnamäe, and Jürgenson.

[Sulland]

Yesterday, we had a press conference in Estonia about this year’s Rally Estonia and its economic impact. Here are some key numbers: unique visitors – 54,549; countries represented (visitors, drivers) – 51; revenue – €32 338 027; tax collected from foreign tourists – €3 037 380. That last number is especially important for the government, as they invested €2 million in the rally. The investment generated 1.5 times the amount back in tax revenue – a strong argument for securing government support for future events.

But the biggest takeaway from the press conference was that in the 2026 edition, a young Estonian driver will get a chance to compete in a Rally1 car. This is a joint project between the WRC Promoter, the rally organizers, and key supporters. At the moment, there are three candidates: Virves, Linnamäe, and Jürgenson.

Interesting!
Do we have similar numbers from the other rallies in WRC and ERC?

[skarderud]

Rally sweden for sale.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20251008/58082a9d01df6ea80da374f8c50d857c.jpg

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[Eli]

Rally sweden for sale.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20251008/58082a9d01df6ea80da374f8c50d857c.jpg

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

What do they mean sell? give it to a different region?

[skarderud]

What do they mean sell? give it to a different region?Hard to say, not wery much information actually, but it seems they have 3 interested to buy it, or just run it next years, who or how i don't know.
Maybe some swede with possibility to read behind the paywall can enlighten us?

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[WRCStan]

What do they mean sell? give it to a different region?

I'm guessing the rally is organised by a company operating on a profit/loss basis that is owned by the governing body which is a member-based not-for-profit organisation, and the districts being the members aren't happy with the costs of the rally when they are paying subscriptions.

In 2025, sports promotion (putting on events) and governance of the sport should not really mix.

[rallyfiend]

Seems Kalle won’t make us wait long to decide his plans after the 2025 WRC season..

Thursday morning?

[flat_right]

Wow... Kalle to move on from rallying

https://toyotagazooracing.com/wrc/release/2025/1009-01/

[becher]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rovanpera-to-leave-wrc-and-go-circuit-racing-in-2026/?fbclid=IwY2xjawNUPu1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHuo6Tgl2BZxI BFT4KKW27OSGeXHY3eGgT0elFWTugncz0Rdp5Px4HFH__GK8_a em_PpzHu4o5IK4qd3ENizh8JQ

I thought this is April first stuff.

[rallyfiend]

Worst kept secret is out.

One would assume this frees up a seat for Oliver?

[macebig]

Weird they turned down Ogier to WEC but are supporting Kalle to SF. We will see how that goes.

[BlueStrike]

Well, all I have to say is "Holy fuck." I guess that solves the Solberg conundrum.

All the best to Kalle, he should still be young enough to make that switch.

[TypeR]

Worst kept secret is out.

One would assume this frees up a seat for Oliver?
Hope he will get Pajari's seat.. showed almost nothing with no pressure

[flat_right]

So Tänak replaces Kalle and Oliver replaces Ogier. Am I right?

[bandit12]

So Tänak replaces Kalle and Oliver replaces Ogier. Am I right?
Nope.
Kalle out- Oliver in.
Tanak retires.

[240RS]

So Tänak replaces Kalle and Oliver replaces Ogier. Am I right?

In all likelihood, this may mean Elfyn Evans will remain as the senior full-timer, and Ogier as the dependable star-man on a part-time basis.

Oliver Solberg should slot-in as the team's third driver with Katsuta and Pajari operating outside the official team entries when Ogier is present.

[EstWRC]

This is definitely now a change for Tänak

[EstWRC]

This is definitely now a change for Tänak

Damn can’t edit on phone.

Wanted to say chance not change.

I’m not surprised at all about this decision. He has looked so unmotivated all season long

[Odd]

For Tänak the only chance at TGR WRC would be if Evans does not get a new contract. In my opinion at least.

[Rallyper]

Stars like Kalle has always been going new ways. Testing their possibilities and skills in new surroundings. And let´s hope he will be happy with racing for a while.

But I put it here already: Kalle will eventually find out that rallying is his thing. And coming back to WRC within 4-5 years, maybe even earlier....

[macebig]

Tanak may be an option, but I would think Ogier would have to either retire or go fully part time for that to happen.

[EstWRC]

Tanak may be an option, but I would think Ogier would have to either retire or go fully part time for that to happen.

Exactly and we haven’t heard yet what he has decided

[flat_right]

I think Toyota will be tempted to hire Tänak. They need another experienced driver alongside Evans to compete for the manufacturers’ title. Kalle is leaving and won’t even do a partial program, while Ogier has said he won’t do as many rallies next year. Oliver is still a question mark — yes, he won in Estonia, but we don’t yet know how he’ll perform on other surfaces and different types of rallies.

[240RS]

More on Kalle's move: https://www.autosport.com/super-formula/news/motivation-rovanpera-switch-rally-single-seaters/10766321/

[trykmann]

I think Toyota will be tempted to hire Tänak. They need another experienced driver alongside Evans to compete for the manufacturers’ title. Kalle is leaving and won’t even do a partial program, while Ogier has said he won’t do as many rallies next year. Oliver is still a question mark — yes, he won in Estonia, but we don’t yet know how he’ll perform on other surfaces and different types of rallies.

I agree, it would be too optimistic to expect good results from Oliver throughout the whole season. He would be a good fit for a third driver and be better than Katsuta.

[TypeR]

,,Oliver to Kalle's place''.. you think that if Kalle had continued, then Oliver would have been just sitting in service and picking nose? :D

Sure he would drive either way..

[Rallyper]

I think Toyota will be tempted to hire Tänak. They need another experienced driver alongside Evans to compete for the manufacturers’ title. Kalle is leaving and won’t even do a partial program, while Ogier has said he won’t do as many rallies next year. Oliver is still a question mark — yes, he won in Estonia, but we don’t yet know how he’ll perform on other surfaces and different types of rallies.

Well, if Oliver doesn´t fit, you guys can´t ever more suggest any other driver for years to come. Name any other than Oliver who would belong in at Toyota? You are talking old guys who peaked. Now there´s a door open for at least one more youngster.

[Eli]

I like the fact that it’s been quiet here this entire time and then news like this breaks out and so does the silence, absolutely love this forum.

[tbazsi95]

Rovanpera official video about his new plans: Super Formula 2026 and the target is F2 2027
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3DMUQ0CihU

[EstWRC]

Well, if Oliver doesn´t fit, you guys can´t ever more suggest any other driver for years to come. Name any other than Oliver who would belong in at Toyota? You are talking old guys who peaked. Now there´s a door open for at least one more youngster.

Oliver will fit anyway but he is not ready yet to take the full responsibility. That what he is saying.

Tänak maybe peaked but he is still one of the best drivers out there atm

[focus206]

I'm not really surprised, a driver who takes a sabbatical year from WRC after just 4 seasons... maybe winning the title so early in his career took away some motivation, as his rallying goal was already achieved. And Kalle seems to have never enjoyed driving these new hybridless cars on Hankook.
Too bad for us rally fans...

[flat_right]

Well, if Oliver doesn´t fit, you guys can´t ever more suggest any other driver for years to come. Name any other than Oliver who would belong in at Toyota? You are talking old guys who peaked. Now there´s a door open for at least one more youngster.

Rallying isn't about peaking, it is all about experience. Ogier is driving like never before, so is he peaking at the moment?

Don't get me wrong, Oliver belongs to Rally1 and would be massive disappointment if he isn't doing a full season next year. But we have seen this with Lappi. Won on his favorite surface in Finland but rest of the career wasn't as everyone hoped and expected. So the question is that is Toyota willing to take the risk?

[becher]

Stars like Kalle has always been going new ways. Testing their possibilities and skills in new surroundings. And let´s hope he will be happy with racing for a while.

But I put it here already: Kalle will eventually find out that rallying is his thing. And coming back to WRC within 4-5 years, maybe even earlier....
I hope he returns.

[flat_right]

I hope he returns.

Same. He just turned 25. So even if he will do single seaters for couple of years, maybe he will miss winning and return to WRC. As I understand, the plan is Super Formula '26, F2 in '27. So couple of years that and if there is nothing that will get him into F1, I hope he returns.

[meh]

If we take that Rally1 has a total of around 10 seats available, then if one of those clearly occupied seats is getting free, it is really big news and makes the grand opening for the silly season.

WRC and Rally1 are interesting - every rally driver dreams of getting there, and those who are there are not willing to stay too long. It shows how overly demanding it is.

But one thing is for sure - neither Rovanperä nor Ogier has anything to lose with the last rallies this season, so they can go "all in" and the win-it-or-bin-it mode.

[Sal yet again]

A real surprise to me but a brave decision and hope it works out as may well silence the roundy roundy boys once and for all! His move certainly puts into perspective Ogier's searching for yet another title.

[Rallyest]

If we take that Rally1 has a total of around 10 seats available, then if one of those clearly occupied seats is getting free, it is really big news and makes the grand opening for the silly season.

WRC and Rally1 are interesting - every rally driver dreams of getting there, and those who are there are not willing to stay too long. It shows how overly demanding it is.

But one thing is for sure - neither Rovanperä nor Ogier has anything to lose with the last rallies this season, so they can go "all in" and the win-it-or-bin-it mode.


Add Tänak to that list since he is not driving for manu points anymore, so im hoping we get a very interesting end to the season

[meh]

Add Tänak to that list since he is not driving for manu points anymore, so im hoping we get a very interesting end to the season

For the title fight, Tänak is too far behind, but for rally wins, sure.

[Tauri_J]

Nope.
Kalle out- Oliver in.
Tanak retires.
Nah, after next season

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Despite the rumours and his demeanor recently this is still a big shock that Kalle is totally quitting to go racing. We've never seen anything like this before.

Toyota spoke about needing competition in rallying to make their achievements worthy.

I hope they dont take Tanak as this would seriously weaken Hyundai and make the last year of Rally1 a real one-sided Championship.

[Rallyper]

Oliver will fit anyway but he is not ready yet to take the full responsibility. That what he is saying.

Tänak maybe peaked but he is still one of the best drivers out there atm

Agree on that, But that shouldn´t hinder full time in 2026.

[Rallyper]

Rallying isn't about peaking, it is all about experience. Ogier is driving like never before, so is he peaking at the moment?

Don't get me wrong, Oliver belongs to Rally1 and would be massive disappointment if he isn't doing a full season next year. But we have seen this with Lappi. Won on his favorite surface in Finland but rest of the career wasn't as everyone hoped and expected. So the question is that is Toyota willing to take the risk?

Judging Oliver in the shadow of Lappi? Nah. Why? here we have the guy, of all youngsters counting, who should and will have a seat at Toyota. Why question him?

[Rallyper]

I think I have on my feet at this time, regarding Oliver to Rally1. ;) ;)

[PLuto]

And Kalle seems to have never enjoyed driving these new hybridless cars on Hankook.

For me it didnt enjoyed driving rally cars last two seasons, no matter the hybrid or Hankook. It looks like he just lost motivation...

[Rallyper]

For me it didnt enjoyed driving rally cars last two seasons, no matter the hybrid or Hankook. It looks like he just lost motivation...

As he says himself, he never went for as many titles as possible. Respect to that.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I guess he's a new generation of rally driver who isnt motivated by records,. Plus although young in age he's been driving rallly cars for many years already.

Good luck to him and itll be fascinating to see how he does in racing. Imagine if he goes and shines at that too and proves 'rally drivers' are truly the best of all !

[Doon]

Rovenpara possibly didn’t think he’d find it so easy to dominate so early and that why he had a break.

The thought of going after Loeb’s record is probably a bit boring to him, and he’s probably set himself a higher target of becoming F1 champion now. He probably just wants to challenge himself.

Also, the WRC isn’t in a great state, so any achievements are going unnoticed in the wider world of sport; whereas, F1 is riding a wave of popularity and investment. Basically, being F1 champion is far more impressive and challenging than WRC champion.

[spyros]

I cant believe he retires from rallying, these gen Z youngsters has other priorities, i 'll miss him.

[Bumbul]

Same. He just turned 25. So even if he will do single seaters for couple of years, maybe he will miss winning and return to WRC. As I understand, the plan is Super Formula '26, F2 in '27. So couple of years that and if there is nothing that will get him into F1, I hope he returns.

In a finnish interview Kalle said that it will be Toyota supporting him all steps of the way, including the final step to F1.
Of course there is the Haas-connection already now, but wouldn't be surprised if Toyota announces an F1 team for '28 race season. Hopefully Kalle is one of the drivers.

[focus206]

Rovenpara possibly didn’t think he’d find it so easy to dominate so early and that why he had a break.

The thought of going after Loeb’s record is probably a bit boring to him, and he’s probably set himself a higher target of becoming F1 champion now. He probably just wants to challenge himself.

Also, the WRC isn’t in a great state, so any achievements are going unnoticed in the wider world of sport; whereas, F1 is riding a wave of popularity and investment. Basically, being F1 champion is far more impressive and challenging than WRC champion.

F1 being more popular doesn't make being F1 champion more impressive or challenging than being WRC champion, only more famous. I doubt Kalle took this decision because he wants notoriety as a F1 driver, but I agree he's probably bored/dissatisfied with WRC...

[saco0o]

hmmmm
"toyota team" in superformula,
toyota sponsors a driver in f2 already,
toyota sponsor and have some tech people in haas
do we think toyota will announce their return to f1 for 2028?
will they leave wrc too?
haha me, the ultra-anxious person

[Doon]

F1 being more popular doesn't make being F1 champion more impressive or challenging than being WRC champion, only more famous. I doubt Kalle took this decision because he wants notoriety as a F1 driver, but I agree he's probably bored/dissatisfied with WRC...

99.9% of people don't know what WRC is, so just being in F1 it is more impressive than being WRC champion. In terms of challenging, circuit racing is in rude health, rallying is not.

I have been an absolute WRC addict since i was a teenager in the late 90s, but to me, currently, it feels so far removed from the general public's radar, that winning a world championship has been completely devalued. If Elfyn Evans wins the WRC this year, it will barely make the mainstream news.

[Doon]

If the powers that be have any sense, Toyota will leave the WRC and enter F1. I can't see where the value comes from entering a WRC team, the exposure is minuscule.

[saco0o]

kalle is not going to be that happy with all the f1 'marketing machine' dumb things. with drivers talking about each other, trying to guess "which circuit is this?". "whats lewis favorite meal?" haha

[Krigen]

Rally sweden for sale.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20251008/58082a9d01df6ea80da374f8c50d857c.jpg

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

Back to Värmland i hope. Better stages and better for spectators

[focus206]

99.9% of people don't know what WRC is, so just being in F1 it is more impressive than being WRC champion. In terms of challenging, circuit racing is in rude health, rallying is not.


I would say 99% of people who follow F1 at least know what rallying is. Rally drivers are among the most respected motorsport drivers in the world, even by motorsport fans who don't follow WRC. I always found this to be the case when talking with F1 fans or reading comments on videos and whatnot.

The fact that motorsport fans wouldn't recognize Kalle or Evans just makes WRC less popular than F1, I don't see where you get the more "impressive" or "challenging"... I don't think anybody would say that Tsunoda (or someone else, I don't know many F1 drivers) is a more impressive driver than Kalle, Ogier, etc.
Famous? Could be. Impressive? As soon as you'd tell those fans that Kalle and Ogier are multiple world rally champion, I don't think they'd pick Tsunoda.

[Doon]

I would say 99% of people who follow F1 at least know what rallying is. Rally drivers are among the most respected motorsport drivers in the world, even by motorsport fans who don't follow WRC. I always found this to be the case when talking with F1 fans or reading comments on videos and whatnot.

The fact that motorsport fans wouldn't recognize Kalle or Evans just makes WRC less popular than F1, I don't see where you get the more "impressive" or "challenging"... I don't think anybody would say that Tsunoda (or someone else, I don't know many F1 drivers) is a more impressive driver than Kalle, Ogier, etc.
Famous? Could be. Impressive? As soon as you'd tell those fans that Kalle and Ogier are multiple world rally champion, I don't think they'd pick Tsunoda.

You and I think WRC is more impressive, but most people don't and that why hardly anyone watches it. I know loads of F1 fans who wouldn't have a clue who Ogier and Rovenpara are. Just listen to a few motoring podcast, hardly any of them mention WRC, and constantly talk about F1, so many petrol heads don't even know who the current WRC drivers are. How can people be impressed if they don't know what it is?

[Rallyper]

I´m waiting for Kalle saying circuit racing is the most boring thing he ever had tested. Same corners lap after lap, for hours... :(

[denkimi]

You and I think WRC is more impressive, but most people don't and that why hardly anyone watches it. I know loads of F1 fans who wouldn't have a clue who Ogier and Rovenpara are. Just listen to a few motoring podcast, hardly any of them mention WRC, and constantly talk about F1, so many petrol heads don't even know who the current WRC drivers are. How can people be impressed if they don't know what it is?
Almost everyone who watches f1 will know who ogier and rovanpera are. And the other way around will wrc fans know most f1 drivers.

But to the general public, neither are known. Most people might know Hamilton, but how many will know piastri? Let alone bearman or hadjar.

The most famous motorsport drivers to the general public are still Schumacher and mcrae.

[Doon]

Maybe he’s not fussed about WRC records, and maybe he wants to be considered the greatest driver of all time one day, and you can’t do that by being in WRC all of your life.

Just listening to the Dirtfish podcast, and they say the average person on the street has more chance of knowing who Pierre Gasly is than Rovenpara.

[Dontcut]

Back to Värmland i hope. Better stages and better for spectators

And no snow.

F1 vs WRC. I reckon there is literally 10x popularity gap between them in favor of F1. To know who Evans is, You have to watched a rally stage. I don't follow or click on F1 news but I know when Ferrari cocks up or when Piastri goes off. Media bubble is huge over F1.

As a estonian Tänak fan, I hope he stays in Hyundai next season. You can kick me. He has tried so many times with Hyundai, it would be hell of a story when he finally delievers. And then starts '27 with his own RedGrey team.

[WRCStan]

I´m waiting for Kalle saying circuit racing is the most boring thing he ever had tested. Same corners lap after lap, for hours... :(

Funny how the Youtube algorithm recommended this to me only last night: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMQC3Ez7hrw

[rallyfiend]

If the powers that be have any sense, Toyota will leave the WRC and enter F1. I can't see where the value comes from entering a WRC team, the exposure is minuscule.

The costs in WRC are miniscule compared to F1 too.

Toyota are clever for their technical partnership with Haas, but if they wanted to buy the team it's billions right now...

[Morte66]

And no snow.

Judging by the vibes I got from ERC Royal Rally of Scandinavia, Varmland can run a very decent summer gravel rally. But I think it's idiotic to talk about a snow rally there.

[Morte66]

I hope they dont take Tanak as this would seriously weaken Hyundai and make the last year of Rally1 a real one-sided Championship.

Me too. If Tanak is at Hyundai, and he continues to get to grips with the difficult car as he has over the last couple of years, and Toyota lose one of their top drivers, that's an interesting WCC.

[AndyRAC]

A lot of rallyfans on here proving they've got a massive chip on their shoulder about F1/ circuit racing. Most of the biggest talents in motorsport are to be found there......It's the place to be. Rallying attracts a small number of drivers, and it's biggest talent is jumping ship.
What is to be gained by beating 3-5 drivers year after year running up multiple championships in a struggling series? 'A big fish in a small pond' Better to try something new.....

[rallyfiend]

Rallyfans also the most insecure group of people. Something changes and everyone thinks the sky is falling in.

A new seat available for a new young driver, while a star of the sport decides to go off and try something new. What exactly is the problem with that?
McRae, Loeb, Ogier all did it.

Many circuit racers have done the opposite: Raikkonen, Kubica, Takamoto.

These are people with opportunities taking advantage of them.

Not everything has to be a reflection on the sport itself....

[Negaiss]

Rovanperas move is a shock to me. But what I hope now, is Rovanpera making it to F1 - I mean regular starter in F1. Rovanpera has talent and has been driving cars from very very young age. He probably has a very good feel of a car and its movement and its limits. Yes - F1 drivers have become WRC regulars, but no other way around. Let's hope Rovanpera will be the first unicorn. He is still young, could make it to F1 with Toyota and red bull backing. F1 cahmpion - higly unlikely, bet F1 regular for couple of seasons - could happen.

[WRCStan]

A lot of rallyfans on here proving they've got a massive chip on their shoulder about F1/ circuit racing.


Rallyfans also the most insecure group of people. Something changes and everyone thinks the sky is falling in.

Admin - there must be a problem with this site as the referenced posts aren't showing for me.

[WRCStan]

Rovanperas move is a shock to me. But what I hope now, is Rovanpera making it to F1 - I mean regular starter in F1. Rovanpera has talent and has been driving cars from very very young age. He probably has a very good feel of a car and its movement and its limits. Yes - F1 drivers have become WRC regulars, but no other way around. Let's hope Rovanpera will be the first unicorn. He is still young, could make it to F1 with Toyota and red bull backing. F1 cahmpion - higly unlikely, bet F1 regular for couple of seasons - could happen.

It'll be interesting to watch how he gets on but it's not wise to assume a great driver is even an average racer.

[doubled1978]

I think it’s great, he has achieved so much so early, why wouldn’t he try something else..Rallying is about to go through a period of change and who knows where we will be in 2-3 years time.

[denkimi]

Rovanperas move is a shock to me. But what I hope now, is Rovanpera making it to F1 - I mean regular starter in F1. Rovanpera has talent and has been driving cars from very very young age. He probably has a very good feel of a car and its movement and its limits. Yes - F1 drivers have become WRC regulars, but no other way around. Let's hope Rovanpera will be the first unicorn. He is still young, could make it to F1 with Toyota and red bull backing. F1 cahmpion - higly unlikely, bet F1 regular for couple of seasons - could happen.
No. He might do some test one day, but he's never going to make it into an f1 race.

[spark13]

I hope to be wrong, but Kalle could became Taka in F1, been there, just because he is 'Japanese'...

[AndersX]

We all should be happy for Dirtfish - just today they managed to make 2 articles and 1 podcast. Wait min 3 more tomorrow. But Autosport is also cooking - 3 articles already.

It was expected. What people in modern sports are not getting - this Iphone generation is different - they get bored, motivations go up and down, their triggers for max focus are different. Kalle simply got bored and lost the spark for rallying - he had been driving fast since kindergarten. He was driving Rally 2 type car even before 15. He had been winning since 14 years old. The same 10 years of Loeb, just in different form.

I find this refreshing for the sport. One high-profile place opens and I am 90% sure it will be filled with Solberg. If Ogier goes, then it will become more interesting. Tanak jumping seats in the last year of his full time carrier - possible, but I do not believe it (yet).

I also think that modern WRC has come closer to circuit racing as ever - those driver learn PS by heart, watching videos over and over again - there is only 1 ideal line and they all are chasing it.

Kalles departure is better for the sports. It has been way too boring in past years. I am actually very looking forward to 2027 rules and what will it bring by opening competition again.

At least some life in the forum again. :)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I Rallying is about to go through a period of change and who knows where we will be in 2-3 years time.

This is probably also part of Kalle's reasons. The new cars moving to Rally2-power in 2027 wont give him any missing buzz.

Toyota will also appreciate having the high Rally2 experience of Solberg in developing their new car. Kalle wouldn't enjoy this but Solberg will love it.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Dirtfish take, with some Kalle clips on his decision:

https://youtu.be/i7SMSSqJJtM?si=nAW4Fa1aircMnPNW

[PLuto]

Dirtfish take, with some Kalle clips on his decision:

https://youtu.be/i7SMSSqJJtM?si=nAW4Fa1aircMnPNW

One imporant notice in general - current Rally1 drivers are afraid of season 2027 with brand new cars (most probably current Rally2 with bigger restrictor and aero as nobody except Toyota will be ready with new car)...

[Steve Boyd]

Before you get too excited about Rovanpera in F1, remember that in Superformula in Japan he'll be racing against drivers with 15 to 20 years of racing experience. They all started in karts when they were little kids so driving in traffic and picking overtakes is second nature to them. Kalle is going to have to learn this. It isn't just about driving fast if you want results, unless you're that good you always qualify on pole & lead every lap!

[deephouse]

I'm happy for him. But also feel sad, the WRC will loose one of the best drivers on the grid. I mean more great drivers, better battles through seasons. When do we last had 4 or five drivers fighting for the title? It was always two drivers battle or even one only dominating every event after event.

I completely understand him. He wants to try something other than rallying. He has his age at his side, have experience, two titles, many other achievements. I know it's completely different discipline, but he will surely not be last or first from the start. I bet even if he would drive against some F1 drivers currently on the grid, he would beat them fair and square. We all know that many of them are there just because of the money and not real talent.

[becher]

I'm happy for him. But also feel sad, the WRC will loose one of the best drivers on the grid. I mean more great drivers, better battles through seasons. When do we last had 4 or five drivers fighting for the title? It was always two drivers battle or even one only dominating every event after event.

I completely understand him. He wants to try something other than rallying. He has his age at his side, have experience, two titles, many other achievements. I know it's completely different discipline, but he will surely not be last or first from the start. I bet even if he would drive against some F1 drivers currently on the grid, he would beat them fair and square. We all know that many of them are there just because of the money and not real talent.

Haven't watched F1 lately have you?

Yes most of them come from rich families and can be considered nepo babies, but the quality of the grid is extremely high right now. Ten or twenty years ago it wasn't nearly as high let alone in the nineties.

But regardless Rovanperä, if he developes well, could certainly mix it with them.

[doubled1978]

This is probably also part of Kalle's reasons. The new cars moving to Rally2-power in 2027 wont give him any missing buzz.

Toyota will also appreciate having the high Rally2 experience of Solberg in developing their new car. Kalle wouldn't enjoy this but Solberg will love it.


Probably.
It’s happened before though, those of us old enough to remember going from Group B to Group A will recall that was a lot worse initially than this is going to be. Can you imagine what Salonen felt like going from the 205 T16 to the Mazda 323. It must have felt broken.
The 1987 RAC rally was a bit sad, but already by 1988 the competition was good and the cars were getting quick. 2027 might be a bit crap, but I’ll bet by 2028 things will be on the up.

[Krigen]

Why is it idiotic? Have you ever spectated live? It not less snow tnow than in the 90 s 00 s nobody complained thenWhy have it up in a area wich is wery unatractive and remote for spectators compered to the original. And yes the stages are much worse also. It just fia got the idea that we need meter high snowbanks.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfrsehGea8M
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCPmH0469X8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39cyUAiG5MI

[Rallyper]

Why is it idiotic? Have you ever spectated live? It not less snow tnow than in the 90 s 00 s nobody complained thenWhy have it up in a area wich is wery unatractive and remote for spectators compered to the original. And yes the stages are much worse also. It just fia got the idea that we need meter high snowbanks.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfrsehGea8M
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCPmH0469X8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39cyUAiG5MI

Well, Karlstad and Värmland is attractive. But lack of snow isn´t only problem. You need temperatures below zero for weeks before. Otherwise stages will not be competable. You´d have gravelrally with studs and ruts like in safari...

[meh]

Dirtfish article-factory is still on full power and produced a statement from Tänak:
https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/tanak-rules-himself-out-of-rovanperas-toyota-seat/

Quotes:




“I think, if you look big picture and see the line-up Toyota has, [there has] been no need from there side to look anywhere else. I guess it’s pretty obvious how it will go and [how] the line-up [is] to be.

“They are very, very well covered and I don’t see any discussions on these topics.”

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Dirtfish article-factory is still on full power and produced a statement from Tänak:
https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/tanak-rules-himself-out-of-rovanperas-toyota-seat/

Quotes:

What's the problem, its their job ?

And there were people complaining the other day that WRC is 'shut down' between events with no news or stories, especially compared to F1.

[EstWRC]

This is mind games

He once already fooled David Evans when he joined Msport

[bandit12]

This is mind games
He once already fooled David Evans when he joined Msport

Nah. Wishful thinking from your side here...

[EstWRC]

Nah. Wishful thinking from your side here...

As long as there are no official statements about contracts then until that my wet dream continues

Tbh it was quite a useless article and like always Tänak gave an politician answer

[focus206]

I think Tanak says "No way I'll be in Toyota next year" no matter if there's an actual chance or not...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

No team swaps can be confirmed at this stage when drivers still have 3 events left this season with their current teams. Any further chat needs to be in Silly Season.

[meh]

What's the problem, its their job ?

And there were people complaining the other day that WRC is 'shut down' between events with no news or stories, especially compared to F1.

No problem to state, I happily follow all the news.. and "news", but this does not make them less of a factory :)

The main point was to share quotes from Tänak.

[flat_right]

No team swaps can be confirmed at this stage when drivers still have 3 events left this season with their current teams. Any further chat needs to be in Silly Season.

This is why Tänak is going to Toyota. If he would stay in Hyundai, it is no problem to confirm that.

[wyler]

This is why Tänak is going to Toyota. If he would stay in Hyundai, it is no problem to confirm that.

i think tanak is trying to go to toyota and abandon ship in hiunday. but toyota doesn't need him, especially due to the situation of hiunday.

[Rallyper]

Why not both Oliver and Ott are tied up at Toyota for next season? Is it impossible? No, don´t think so.

[Rallyper]

Why not both Oliver and Ott are tied up at Toyota for next season? In Rally1, that is. Is it impossible? No, don´t think so.

[tbazsi95]

Al-Attiyah rejoins M-Sport for Saudi Rally1 outing
Twenty-time Middle East Rally Champion will drive an M-Sport Ford Puma Rally1 for the first time
dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/al-attiyah-rejoins-m-sport-for-saudi-rally1-outing/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

This is why Tänak is going to Toyota. If he would stay in Hyundai, it is no problem to confirm that.

No-one confirms anything at this stage, but maybe he's had enough at Hyundai and will retire if Toyota wont have him.

[saco0o]

toyota line up for 2026: evans, taka
haha

[COD]

Before you get too excited about Rovanpera in F1, remember that in Superformula in Japan he'll be racing against drivers with 15 to 20 years of racing experience. They all started in karts when they were little kids so driving in traffic and picking overtakes is second nature to them. Kalle is going to have to learn this. It isn't just about driving fast if you want results, unless you're that good you always qualify on pole & lead every lap!

Kalle has raced karts in his youth and then the Porche stuff. Of course nothing compared to the others, but not such novice as people think

[flat_right]

No-one confirms anything at this stage, but maybe he's had enough at Hyundai and will retire if Toyota wont have him.

Just to prove you wrong. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2001/oct/17/motorracing.rallying (17th oct 2001). Richard Burns agreed to go from Subaru to Peugeot and there was still three rallies to go that year.

[FUNKYXXXXX]

Hello everybody.
Sorry for the offtopic. I have a question.
What is happening when a rally car's homologation expired ? Does the manufacturer continues to provide spare parts to privateers, or not ? and for how long ?
Thanks in advance and I'm sorry for the offtopic, again.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Just to prove you wrong. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2001/oct/17/motorracing.rallying (17th oct 2001). Richard Burns agreed to go from Subaru to Peugeot and there was still three rallies to go that year.

Different times and different situation.

In that case Peugeot had wanted Burns for years, whereas Tanak left Toyota who have won 5 Manufacturer titles without him.

Plus Toyota still has 3 drivers going for the 2025 WDC and wont distract any of them by openly discussing contracts with a new driver.

.

[flat_right]

Different times and different situation.

In that case Peugeot had wanted Burns for years, whereas Tanak left Toyota who have won 5 Manufacturer titles without him.

Plus Toyota still has 3 drivers going for the 2025 WDC and wont distract any of them by openly discussing contracts with a new driver.



I call this BS. You were precisely talking about timing (quote: "No-one confirms anything at this stage"). And 2001 is not 1980 and the situation in 2001 was exactly the same, three rallies to go and still in the title hunt. Burns wanted to win so bad he was looking for other options (as Tänak might be now). I remembered this by heart because the contract situation was crazy. When announced, he was third in the standings but eventually won the whole thing which got him a bit into trouble because he had a clause in the contract that if he wins, Subaru can keep him. It was eventually settled in the court.

But if 2001 is too old, then Latvala joining Volkswagen in 2013, was announced 17th of October. https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/volkswagen-confirms-jari-matti-latvala-for-2013-wrc-season-4458393/4458393/

Or Kris Meeke joining Toyota for 2019, announced also 17th of October. https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/motorsport/meeke-secures-toyota-wrc-deal-2019

[WRCStan]

Hello everybody.
Sorry for the offtopic. I have a question.
What is happening when a rally car's homologation expired ? Does the manufacturer continues to provide spare parts to privateers, or not ? and for how long ?
Thanks in advance and I'm sorry for the offtopic, again.

It depends on many things like whose car, which car and what group but mostly market conditions and if they're original, non-common (or made) parts not available elsewhere. Many parts aren't made by the *car manufacturer* and are available off the shelf elsewhere. The cars usually get added to an FIA "list of cars permitted to enter rallies" for an extra period, but outside of FIA championship scoring, and they may still be used in national rallies too. So they don't instantly become dead or precious.

Email the manufacturer's if you're looking to buy, or ask the seller who should tell you where to look.

[PLuto]

I call this BS. You were precisely talking about timing (quote: "No-one confirms anything at this stage"). And 2001 is not 1980 and the situation in 2001 was exactly the same, three rallies to go and still in the title hunt. Burns wanted to win so bad he was looking for other options (as Tänak might be now). I remembered this by heart because the contract situation was crazy. When announced, he was third in the standings but eventually won the whole thing which got him a bit into trouble because he had a clause in the contract that if he wins, Subaru can keep him. It was eventually settled in the court.

But if 2001 is too old, then Latvala joining Volkswagen in 2013, was announced 17th of October. https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/volkswagen-confirms-jari-matti-latvala-for-2013-wrc-season-4458393/4458393/

Or Kris Meeke joining Toyota for 2019, announced also 17th of October. https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/motorsport/meeke-secures-toyota-wrc-deal-2019

It is always about deals and contracts. Usually drivers are not announcing moving to different team until the previous contract expire. If something like that is happening, it is usually after agreement with previous team...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

From Dirtfish:

"Hyundai is expected to retain its current three drivers – Thierry Neuville, Ott Tänak and Adrien Fourmaux – with the two world champions understood to be under contract already and the Frenchman reckoned to be on the verge of signing an extension of his current single-season agreement."

[FUNKYXXXXX]

It depends on many things like whose car, which car and what group but mostly market conditions and if they're original, non-common (or made) parts not available elsewhere. Many parts aren't made by the *car manufacturer* and are available off the shelf elsewhere. The cars usually get added to an FIA "list of cars permitted to enter rallies" for an extra period, but outside of FIA championship scoring, and they may still be used in national rallies too. So they don't instantly become dead or precious.

Email the manufacturer's if you're looking to buy, or ask the seller who should tell you where to look.

Thank you for the reply.

[denkimi]

toyota line up for 2026: evans, taka
haha
Evan taka and solberg. They might need Tanak if ogier quits for real.

[Dimitris]

The base of the 2026 Acropolis Rally will be in Loutraki, not Lamia.

https://www.wrc.com/en/news/loutraki-to-host-2026-eko-acropolis-rally-greece-

[flat_right]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ben-sulayem-expected-to-run-unopposed-in-fia-presidential-race/

Ben Sulayem expected to run unopposed in FIA presidential race

Serious question, has he done anything for WRC in his last term apart from warming global temperature with his warm breath?

[skarderud]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ben-sulayem-expected-to-run-unopposed-in-fia-presidential-race/

Ben Sulayem expected to run unopposed in FIA presidential race

Serious question, has he done anything for WRC in his last term apart from warming global temperature with his warm breath?When his only opponent openly admits he has been forced to withdraw from the election, its obviuos shitty business going on. As most of the other things Saudi Arabia doing around the world.

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[TypeR]

Saved generations from bad words! :D

[WRCStan]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ben-sulayem-expected-to-run-unopposed-in-fia-presidential-race/

Ben Sulayem expected to run unopposed in FIA presidential race

Serious question, has he done anything for WRC in his last term apart from warming global temperature with his warm breath?

Serious question, what would you like him to do?

[deephouse]

Step down, because he is clown, not just in WRC, but in all motorsport field. He constantly prove my words.

[BleAivano]

...

[BleAivano]

Rally Sweden 2026 info about stages and itinerary
https://www.emotorsport.se/nyheter.php?in=2&nyhets_id=27760

https://rallysweden.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/rally-sweden-2026-rally-guide-1-appendix-1.pdf
https://www.rally-maps.com/Rally-Sweden-2026

[1988senna]

Any reliable sources now mention that Skoda, Lancia, MSport,Hyundai will confirm to join 2027 group one??

[EstWRC]

I will just leave this here

https://x.com/powerslidemedia/status/1980651093488194020?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

[focus206]

I will just leave this here

https://x.com/powerslidemedia/status/1980651093488194020?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

Facepalm inducing... and even if we remove the points he got with Rally1 in Estonia, he would still be ahead of the best placed Puma. No excuse for Munster and McErlean to be behind a WRC2 driver.

[flat_right]

Serious question, what would you like him to do?

Are you serious? He has given so many promises over the years to make this sport better. Everybody had some hopes as he has rally background etc and maybe knows stuff. But yeah... it’s a running joke that the guy raises the planet’s average temperature just by breathing. Come on, man… he hasn’t done anything for WRC. Like ZEROOOO. We’re in a really dark place with the WRC right now. Apart from Toyota, no manufacturer is even working and plans to on a WRC27 car. And this narcissist, who is a legend only in his own mind and who nobody likes, just flies around the world handing out F1 trophies and hogging every camera shot he can get. Arghhhh..........

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/fia-president-ben-sulayem-we-can-fix-the-wrc/ - In an exclusive interview with DirtFish, Mohammed Ben Sulayem promised to give more attention to rallying from now

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/fia-president-apologizes-for-lack-of-wrc-fixes/ - Two years ago Mohammed Ben Sulayem told DirtFish he'd fix the WRC. That hasn't happened yet – but promises progress is coming

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/sulayem-two-and-a-half-manufacturers-in-wrc-is-not-enough/6931320/ Sulayem: Two and a half manufacturers in WRC is not enough

https://www.autohebdof1.com/news/rally/wrc/the-wrc-changes-nothing-until-2027.html Ben Sulayem: “The WRC is extremely important for the FIA"

https://vauhdinmaailma.fi/wrc/rallin-mm-sarja-kyntaa-edelleen-syvalla-fian-presidentti-lupaa-jalleen-isoja-muutoksia-tulette - Hh promises “big changes” for the WRC, specifically to make it more attractive for manufacturers, reduce costs, etc.

etc....