WRC Sets Sights on Cost-Effective Future with Proposed 2027 Technical Regulations
The World Rally Championship (WRC) is gearing up for an exciting future, with proposed technical regulations set to drastically reshape the top tier of rallying. Senior sources have described the plans as “sport-friendly,” aiming to slash costs while enhancing competitiveness and attracting more participants.
Titled “WRC Future Technical 2027+’, the FIA Motorsport Department document outlines a groundbreaking shift. Top-class WRC cars would feature Rally2 engines, transmissions, and brakes mounted on a special tubular chassis. This strategic move, pending approval at the world council meeting scheduled for Wednesday, is aimed at significantly reducing expenses for manufacturers and teams.
The proposal designates the working name ‘WRC27′ for these new vehicles, with a capped cost of 345,000 euros. This price point mirrors that of WRC cars built between 2012 and 2016, highlighting the commitment to affordability.
Beyond impacting costs, the proposed regulations also seek to streamline the sport by reducing the number of team members traveling to races. This change is designed to make rallying more sustainable and environmentally friendly while boosting manufacturers’ return on investment, potentially doubling their current profit margins.
The new cars, projected to weigh 1,230 kg, will retain the current Rally1 chassis philosophy and SUV design, combining familiarity with cutting-edge technology. Established Rally1 cars will reach the end of their competitive lifecycle at the end of the 2026 season, paving the way for the WRC27 era.
One insider familiar with the proposal expressed confidence in its potential: “There are going to be people both for and against what’s being proposed here, but honestly, is it going to make things worse? No. What we have now is a real opportunity to create close competition – more than 1,500 current Rally2 cars worldwide will be able to compete on relatively equal terms for outright WRC victories in 2027. How is that not good?”
Another supporter echoed this sentiment: “I wouldn’t say it’s too much of an exaggeration to say that these are potentially good rules for the sport. It’s such a big deal.”
Subject to FIA World Motor Sport Council approval, these proposed regulations offer a thrilling glimpse into the future of WRC. By attracting more teams and drivers, promoting a more level playing field, and reducing costs, this rewrite of the rulebook could usher in a new golden age for rally racing.
Subject to FIA World Motor Sport Council approval, this will be the future of the WRC 🧐 pic.twitter.com/mIjNSfdVD1— DirtFish (@DirtFishRally) December 5, 2024
How will the WRC’s proposed cost-cutting measures impact the accessability of the sport for new competitors?
## WRC Unveils Cost-Cutting Plans: A Move Towards Sustainability?
**[Host:]** Joining us today to discuss the proposed changes to the WRC technical regulations for 2027 is Alex Reed, a respected figure in the rally world. Welcome to the show!
**[Alex Reed:]** Thanks for having me!
**[Host:]** These new regulations are being described as a “game-changer.” Can you elaborate on what’s driving this
radical shift?
**[Alex Reed:]** Absolutely. The WRC is looking to become more cost-effective and sustainable, which will hopefully lead to a more exciting and competitive championship for everyone involved. The proposal aims to significantly reduce costs for manufacturers and teams, making it more accessible for new competitors to enter the sport. It’s also designed to streamline the logistical side of rallying, potentially reducing the environmental footprint.
**[Host:]** One of the key aspects is the adoption of Rally2 components for WRC cars. Can you tell us more about how this will work?
**[Alex Reed:]** Essentially, top-tier WRC cars would use Rally2 engines, transmissions, and brakes, mounted on a new, purpose-built tubular chassis specifically designed for the new regulations [[1](https://www.wrc.com/en/more/about-wrc/rules-and-regulations/?mobile)]. This approach capitalizes on existing, proven technology while keeping development costs in check.
**[Host:]** And they’ve given these new cars a catchy name: WRC27. Tell us more about the cost implications of these cars.
**[Alex Reed:]** The proposed cost cap is set at 345,000 euros. That’s remarkably similar to the cost of WRC cars built between 2012 and 2016, showcasing a clear commitment to affordability.
**[Host:]** Let’s talk about sustainability. This is a major topic for motorsports globally. How will these changes impact the WRC’s footprint?
**[Alex Reed:]**
The regulations propose reducing the number of team members traveling to each rally. This streamlined approach will minimize logistics and travel, ultimately leading to a smaller carbon footprint for the championship.
**[Host:]** This is certainly an ambitious plan from the WRC. What are your thoughts on the potential impact of these changes on the sport going forward?
**[Alex Reed:]** I believe these changes are vital for the future of rallying. This could usher in a new era of competitiveness, attracting more manufacturers, teams, and drivers. A more sustainable and accessible WRC will ultimately benefit everyone who loves this incredible sport.
