FIA approves key sporting regulations for 2027 World Rally Championship

The International Automobile Federation (FIA) has officially approved the core sporting regulations for the 2027 World Rally Championship (WRC) season, setting the stage for a major technical overhaul of the championship.

Following the latest meeting of the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC), key details regarding the championship's future were revealed. The premier category will feature both all-new WRC27-spec cars and upgraded Rally2 machinery fitted with a dedicated conversion kit.

While the top tier retains the Rally1 moniker, it will be divided into two parallel groups: WRC Cars and WRC Kit Cars. Both sets of technical regulations have been designed to ensure comparable levels of on-stage performance and competitiveness.

Toyota's factory team alongside tuning outfits Project Rally One and RMC Motorsport are set to field completely new builds that meet the baseline WRC27 criteria.

Meanwhile, Rally2 manufacturers will be able to utilize the FIA's official €7,500 upgrade package, which includes new front fenders, a front bumper, and a rear aerodynamic element. M-Sport is currently the only team to have confirmed its participation with this kit, having kicked off testing with a modified Ford Fiesta Rally2 in Spain last week.

It was also confirmed that both machine types will feature an enlarged 33mm turbo restrictor. This will deliver an extra 15 horsepower compared to current Rally2 cars utilizing a 32mm restrictor.

With an influx of privateer tuning entries anticipated, the Manufacturers' Championship will be rebranded as the Constructors' Championship, contested by all Rally1 manufacturers across a full 15-round calendar.

In parallel, a new WRC Teams Championship will be introduced for all Rally1 entrants. It will consist of seven pre-nominated rallies, including one mandatory flyaway event and the season finale. This format offers a viable path for teams such as Project Rally One and RMC Motorsport, who have already indicated that a full-season campaign is unlikely.

The WRC2, WRC3, and WRC Masters Cup categories will also retain their places within the championship structure for 2027.