Lancia Plans Return to Rally

After years of rumors and expectations, Lancia has officially confirmed its intention to return to the world of rally. This news, reported by DirtFish, marks a significant moment for the Italian brand, which stepped away from rally at the end of 1991.

Lancia's return to rally is more than mere speculation, especially following the announcement that its performance division, HF, will reintroduce the Ypsilon in a fully electric version. This revelation has added credibility to the idea that Lancia might be planning a significant return to the sport.

The established contact with Lancia reveals a clear strategy: the return to rally is seen as an important marketing tool. However, the company has emphasized that this move will depend on whether the return on investment meets their expectations.

Lancia's legacy in rally is undeniable, with the Lancia Delta being the most successful vehicle in the history of the World Rally Championship (WRC). However, its absence from the competitions has been notable over the past three decades.

It is speculated that Lancia could leverage Citroën's C3 Rally2 program, part of the Stellantis group, to facilitate its return. Citroën, with its recent experience in the world championship, could be a valuable ally for Lancia in this endeavor. Didier Clements, with his experience at Citroën and involvement during the Sébastien Loeb dominance era, could be a key piece in this project.