Demand surges for WRC host spots: How big can the calendar get?

Pulse Sports Team 16:16 - 25 October 2026

The World Rally Championship (WRC) is gearing up for two highly anticipated returns to the calendar, targeting events in the United Kingdom and the United States for 2027. Meanwhile, championship bosses and the FIA continue to pursue their ambition of attracting a Chinese car manufacturer, hosting a round in China, or achieving both simultaneously.

FIA Deputy President for Sport Malcolm Wilson stressed that although the list of candidate countries remains strictly confidential, global interest in hosting world-class rally events is currently at an all-time high.

"I can't name specific countries, but I can state categorically that the appetite to host WRC rounds right now is immense," Wilson said. "I wasn't part of the operational side of the FIA or the Promoter previously, but we are currently seeing an exceptional level of activity regarding the addition of new rallies."

Alongside China, Argentina has emerged as another potential candidate, with reports suggesting it could return to the championship as early as next season. Wilson noted that while a US event remains strategically vital from a marketing standpoint, the series is also balancing other key priorities.

"Some of the destinations being talked about are indeed part of our roadmap, but we are also holding very intriguing talks with other nations," the FIA deputy president added. "There are even locations I never would have expected to show such interest. I believe they could bring significant value to the championship's future development."

He explained that the negotiation process remains dynamic and open to any viable project: "Work is ongoing, of course. We are ready to engage with any potential organiser who has the confidence and capability to deliver an event of this scale."

Wilson expressed clear confidence in the championship's future direction. "From the FIA's perspective, the current outlook is incredibly encouraging. It proves we are heading down the right path. This surging interest shows that people are finally realising the true potential of the WRC," he concluded.