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FIA Maintains Stability in WRC Rally1 Regulations Amid Hyundai Uncertainty
The FIA has clarified that there are no imminent plans to modify the World Rally Championship (WRC) Rally1 regulations for the upcoming year, despite ongoing questions regarding Hyundai’s future participation beyond 2025.
The current Rally1 regulations were instituted by the FIA in 2022 with expectation for a conventional five-year homologation cycle. Initially, major manufacturers Toyota, Hyundai, and Ford through M-Sport endorsed these regulations. However, Hyundai’s long-term commitment to the series has become increasingly uncertain, particularly past the current season.
Hyundai confirmed only a program extending to 2025, while deliberating its intentions for 2026 and beyond, particularly in light of the anticipated WRC27 regulations set to debut at that time. Nevertheless, the company also announced plans last year to enter the World Endurance Championship in 2026 under its Genesis brand.
Speculation about Hyundai’s future resurfaced during the recent Safari Rally Kenya, igniting discussions that if Hyundai were to exit, the WRC might revert to utilizing Rally2 regulations for its premier class.
Thierry Neuville, reigning world champion and Hyundai driver, addressed the team’s uncertain trajectory but emphasized that no final decisions have been made regarding their future in the championship.
Thierry Neuville, Hyundai World Rally Team
Photo by: Vincent Thuillier / Hyundai Motorsport
In a recent media roundtable at Rally Islas Canarias, FIA technical director Xavier Mestelan Pinon underlined that a regulatory shift for the next season is not on the agenda, even if Hyundai decides to step back. “The current regulation follows a five-year cycle for Rally1. As of now, there’s no intention to change it,” Mestelan Pinon noted.
He added that while there might be fewer Rally1 cars on the track if Hyundai were to leave, various solutions could be explored. “Our priority is to solidify a robust future for 2027. Rallying continues to draw large crowds, indicating the format’s viability,” he reflected.
Mestelan Pinon also confirmed that discussions are ongoing with Hyundai to alleviate any concerns they might have regarding both short-term and long-term commitments to the WRC, particularly concerning the new regulations in 2027. “We are focused on addressing Hyundai’s concerns while keeping the spirit of the championship in mind,” he stated.
Xavier Mestelan Pinon
Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images
“Hyundai is an integral part of the ecosystem, but not the sole entity. It’s essential to take a comprehensive view and make balanced decisions. We are in dialogue with Hyundai, but we aim to maintain the integrity of the existing regulations,” Mestelan Pinon explained. “Current discussions involve manufacturers sharing valuable insights to enhance our regulatory framework.”
Growing Interest in WRC 2027 Regulations, Tight Timeline Ahead
Looking forward, the FIA has disclosed that there are “several entities” currently expressing interest in the upcoming WRC27 regulations, which aim to refresh the championship framework. Nonetheless, the finalization of these rules, first revealed in December of last year, will not occur until late August, raising concerns among existing teams regarding their ability to adapt in time for the 2027 season.
FIA officials remain optimistic about meeting the timeline, targeting a grid of 20 cars. The forthcoming WRC27 regulations will introduce a cost cap of €345,000 to attract a wider array of teams and manufacturers.
Sébastien Ogier, Vincent Landais, Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT Toyota GR Yaris Rally1
Photo by: Toyota Racing
The new vehicles are set to feature space frame chassis provided by manufacturers and tuners and will largely utilize components from current Rally2 cars. This allows flexibility in bodywork design, enabling a variety of production car styles to compete, from hatchbacks to SUVs.
“The teams have the details necessary for crafting their cars, including front and rear designs. While the timeline may seem tight, several manufacturers are actively working on this project and prefer to stick to the 2027 schedule,” Mestelan Pinon remarked. “Despite timing challenges, many manufacturers view this as a promising regulation, and we are encouraged by the interest from tuners working on bespoke vehicles.”
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