Qualifying, familiar from Formula racing, were conducted in the WRC series during the 2012–2013 seasons, but they have not been implemented since. In contrast, time trials have been a part of the competition format in the European Rally Championship (ERC) for many years.
In rallying, qualifying have been used to reduce the significance of starting position, as the fastest driver in the time trials gets to choose their starting position first. Champion drivers have repeatedly complained about this issue, which surfaced again last season when Hyundai driver Thierry Neuville, who ultimately won the WRC title, voiced his dissatisfaction on multiple occasions throughout the year.
Neuville led the WRC series from the Monte Carlo Rally in January onwards, which meant that the disadvantage was undeniably present, particularly in gravel rallies. A proposal to reinstate time trials was submitted to the WRC working group under the FIA, the International Automobile Federation. However, according to Motorsport.com, this proposal was rejected in a vote.
“There is big discussion about the whole process of the weekend from the first flag to the end,” FIA Road sport director Andrew Wheatley told Motorsport.com.
“There are discussions going on about what we can do. I don’t believe there will be a dramatic difference, we won’t go to a full qualifying activity or something radically different but there is work around the edges to see if we can make it slightly different.”
According to the proposal submitted to the WRC Commission, the top three drivers in the WRC standings would have competed solely for their starting positions in the actual rally. A separate time trial would not have been necessary, as the matter could have been decided based on the first run of the shakedown stage. The fastest driver would have secured the best starting position.
Thus, the WRC series will continue in the same format next season. The championship leader will assume the role of road sweeper during gravel rallies on Thursdays and Fridays, until the starting order is adjusted to reflect the race standings.
