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Canary Islands to host WRC in 2025 in new two-year deal
Rally Islas Canarias, established in 1977, has been a consistent event on the European Rally Championship calendar since 2016. The asphalt rally is set to become part of the WRC calendar for 2025 and 2026 pending approval from the World Motor Sport Council, marking a significant transition. This move follows the elevation of Tet Rally Latvia and Rally Poland from the ERC to the WRC for the current year, reinforcing Spain’s presence in the WRC after Rally Catalunya’s absence from the 2022 calendar. CEO German Morales expressed that bringing Rally Islas Canarias to the WRC is the realization of a long-desired goal and a testament to years of hard work, in partnership with WRC Promoter. Jona Seibel, WRC Promoter managing director, commended the rally management team’s capabilities and confirmed the excitement about Spain’s reintegration into the WRC calendar, showcasing a clear strategy for ERC events to progress to the WRC. The WRC anticipates expansion to 14 events in the upcoming season, with interest from nations like Saudi Arabia, Ireland, Paraguay, and Argentina vying for a spot on the 2025 schedule, spurred by the championship’s commitment to a Middle East round and exploration of new host locations like Ireland. Ireland’s bid is contingent on securing government funding, while the USA aims for a 2026 entry into the championship, shaping a dynamic future for the WRC.
