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Recent Developments in the World Rally Championship Signal Potential Change
In a week marked by significant movements within the FIA and the World Rally Championship (WRC), two pivotal developments may shape the future of the sport.
First, the FIA has reached an agreement with the World Rally Drivers Alliance (WoRDA), reinstating stage-end interviews that were previously silenced following the Safari Rally Kenya. Drivers can now express themselves without the fear of penalties for using inappropriate language in high-pressure moments.
Following this resolution, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem proposed Malcolm Wilson, the esteemed founder of the M-Sport-Ford team, as a candidate for the deputy president for sport. This nomination comes in the wake of Robert Reid’s resignation, a long-standing figure in the WRC and a co-driver world champion in 2001, who stepped down citing a “standards breakdown” within the organization.
These developments arrive at a crucial juncture for the WRC, which is navigating a transformation aimed at attracting new manufacturers ahead of the anticipated 2027 regulations unveiled last December. Additionally, the WRC Promoter is up for sale, raising questions about Hyundai’s participation beyond 2025.
The agreement concerning the sanctions for “inappropriate language” has been well-received by drivers, emphasizing a new era of communication with the FIA. Hyundai’s Ott Tanak expressed optimism regarding the steps taken, suggesting that this could foster trust and lead to further enhancements in the sport. “We need communication between all parties. At the end of the day, it isn’t solely the FIA’s sport; we are the ones participating, along with many others dedicated to making it better,” he stated.
Drivers have long been advocating for clearer communication and a better-defined future for the WRC. At the 2025 Monte Carlo opener, Ben Sulayem reiterated his commitment to “fix” the championship, indicating a strong desire for improvement.
The potential appointment of Wilson as deputy president, pending a vote at the extraordinary general assemblies and conference in Macau this June, has also garnered support among the drivers. His reputation within the WRC service park and past collaborations with Ben Sulayem lend credence to the belief that he might positively influence the series.
Elfyn Evans, a former M-Sport driver and current points leader in the WRC, remarked on Wilson’s extensive experience, noting, “You won’t find many with his level of expertise both as a driver and team owner, alongside his acumen in the commercial landscape.” He emphasized the forthcoming challenges that would benefit from Wilson’s strong leadership and decision-making skills.
Tanak added to the chorus of support, reflecting on the precarious situation in rallying while identifying Wilson as a potential guiding force. “There are numerous aspects that require improvement, and someone like Malcolm, who is direct and robust, could contribute significantly,” he stated.
Wilson himself was taken aback by the nomination but expressed gratitude for the opportunity. His commitment to enhancing the sport remains robust, stating, “I’ve collaborated closely with Mohammed, and he is genuinely keen to see rallying thrive. It’s been my life, and if I can make a difference, that would be splendid.” He acknowledged the complexities of the role but highlighted his passion for rallying and the need to energize the fan base.
“The core fans have remained loyal and that gives me hope. We need to take decisive steps to restore rallying to its former glory,” Wilson concluded.
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