Major Rule Concessions Introduced for New WRC Manufacturers

From next season, two types of machinery will compete in the World Rally Championship's (WRC) premier Rally1 category. Cars built to the new WRC27 technical regulations will be joined by Rally2-based machinery fitted with a dedicated WRC Kit.

WRC Kit cars will feature a pre-approved aerodynamic package, comprising new front wings, a revised front bumper, and a rear aerodynamic element.

A power increase is also on the cards, with the maximum diameter of the turbocharger air restrictor enlarged from 32mm to 33mm for both categories of machinery.

The FIA reserves the right to introduce sporting or technical adjustments where necessary to ensure an appropriate Balance of Performance between both concepts. This regulatory tool will prove pivotal, particularly throughout the 2027–2028 transition period.

Starting next year, the current Manufacturers' World Championship will make way for a newly established Constructors' Championship.

Alongside mainstream car manufacturers, independent vehicle developers and specialist tuning outfits will now also be eligible to compete for the prestigious crown.

According to the official FIA regulations: "A Rally1 car can only be homologated once the car manufacturer (OEM) has registered for participation in the WRC as a manufacturer."

Under the newly introduced concessions, a manufacturer must contest a minimum of ten rounds on the WRC calendar with at least two cars per rally during the first year of the Rally1 car's homologation. This significantly softens the previous rigid requirement that mandated factory teams to enter every single event on the schedule.

This overhaul significantly lowers the barrier to entry for prospective marques while making it considerably easier to roll out a competitive programme even mid-season.