End of the Hybrid Era in the WRC

The World Rally Championship (WRC) plans to stop using Rally1 hybrid cars starting in 2025, according to an announcement by the FIA on February 28, 2024, reported by Tom Howard. This decision stems from a thorough analysis of the current WRC format and a fan survey conducted by the FIA. The main goal is to reduce costs, as the Rally1 hybrid cars, introduced in 2022, have proven to be extremely expensive, with prices close to one million euros.

Starting in 2025, the technical and sporting regulations of the WRC will undergo significant changes. The current Rally1 cars will remain the basis of the top category, but they will operate without the hybrid unit and with reductions in aerodynamics and turbo restrictor. These modifications aim to balance cost reduction with performance. For this year, Rally1 cars have been allowed to operate without the hybrid unit, but with the condition that they cannot accrue points in the championship if they choose this option.

The Rally2 cars, which form the basis for national and international series, will continue in their current form. However, starting in 2025, they will have the option to use a WRC kit to enhance their performance and reduce the gap with Rally1 cars. This kit will include a larger restrictor, a larger exhaust, an optional paddle shift gearbox, and a rear wing.

For 2026, new technical regulations are planned for Rally1, based on the current concept but with modifications. These will include the use of a common safety cell to reduce costs and complexity, and will allow manufacturers to develop cars with their own bodywork based on production models. Output power will be set at 330hp, and there will be restrictions on engine performance, transmission, and aerodynamic efficiency. Additionally, there will be a cost limit per car of 400,000 euros.

In addition to these measures, the FIA is working to introduce an electric category in the WRC. There are also plans to increase promotional opportunities around each WRC event, and event organizers will be given more freedom to develop their rally routes. Rallies must conclude on Sunday with the Power Stage, and the global calendar could include shorter sprint-style events and longer endurance events, maintaining variety in surfaces such as asphalt, gravel, and snow.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the importance of these decisions for the future of the WRC and its community. It was also mentioned that the results of the WRC Fan Engagement Survey will be considered in the final proposal drafting process.