Although I understand the point on introducing so called WRC2 Pro, I think it just make things more complicated and a sport already difficult to understand from the casual person don't need more complexity.
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Although I understand the point on introducing so called WRC2 Pro, I think it just make things more complicated and a sport already difficult to understand from the casual person don't need more complexity.
I don't think the average casual fan cares about WRC2.
The biggest issue the WRC have is they will now have to separate out the classes on the TV coverage. A solid 15 seconds for each will be fine I'm sure...
In all seriousness, maybe with this formalised pro WRC2 those manufacturers could band together to ensure some better coverage. I'd love to watch a 30min dedicated WRC2 edit on YouTube or even WRC+.
A distincton between manus and privateers in WRC2 make sense but it could be done in a simple way, through a privateer cup inside WRC2 (a bit like ERC28 on the ERC).
What bothers me the most is the possibility (it’s still unclear) of this new WRC2 Pro to use R5+ cars; that would be a real threat to R5 balance around the world, as some regional or national series could also be tempted to use them alongside normal spec R5’s. Instead of having a handful of crews fighting for the win in the national events, we could have those being disputed only by a couple of favourites, as when WRC’s were allowed.
Hmm, but then how do you define a manufacturer entry? The Citroen R5s are run by PH Sport and the Hyundai by BRC (I think), even Katsura and Arai are not run by a works team but are they true privateers?
The FIA release talks about attracting privateers and national champions, but isn’t this what ERC is for?
I think they should think more about the whole ladder and prize system.
I hope not too, but then why have they only mentioned current spec cars use in the WRC2 privateer series? Besides, the Fabia tested in Portugal a couple of weeks ago didn’t look/sound as a current spec R5.
From the FIA PR:
“Building on the success of the R5 car, a new WRC 2 Pro Championship for Drivers, Co-Drivers and Manufacturers will be created as a platform for registered R5 manufacturers.
The same specification R5 car will continue to be used in the FIA WRC 2 Championship. This championship will be solely for private entrants, with the intention being to attract more drivers from national and regional championships.”