P1racenews AI automatic summary:
WRC Promoter backs FIA vision for WRC future
The FIA unveiled its comprehensive vision for the future of the WRC during today’s World Motor Sport Council meeting, featuring numerous proposals aimed at enhancing the championship. One of the most daring decisions is the elimination of control hybrid units from Rally1 cars starting in the 2025 season, a significant change from the 2022 regulations. This move means that current Rally1 cars will not complete the original five-year homologation cycle. The existing Rally1 cars will race next season without hybrid components, along with reduced air restrictor and aerodynamics to lower costs, as opposed to the nearly one million euro price tag of the original Rally1 car. These adjustments will be confirmed in June alongside new Rally1 regulations for 2026, centered on a concept producing around 330 horsepower at a cost cap of 400,000 euros. Besides technical regulations, the FIA announced the establishment of a WRC Promotion Team to collaborate closely with stakeholders in order to capitalize on promotional opportunities and maximize the WRC’s potential per event. Furthermore, organizers will be allowed to adopt more flexible event formats, decrease liaison section distances, and expand event reach, while remote service options will be promoted, with limited parts allowed in small support vehicles carried by teams. The alterations have been positively received by the WRC Promoter, who, although not directly involved in the decision-making process, endorsed the FIA’s proposals as beneficial for the sport’s growth. While the WRC teams have yet to provide feedback on the FIA’s future vision, the overall sentiment remains optimistic and geared towards advancement within the championship.
