In early October, reports emerged that hybrid units might be removed from next season’s cars. Previously, the plan was to continue with the current cars until the end of the homologation period, which ends in late 2026.
Costs related to hybrid units appear set to increase from next season onwards. From next year, teams would no longer be allowed to simply reset the units when they encounter a fault; instead, they would need to be fully repaired. This could result in millions in additional costs for the teams.
According to M-Sport Ford team principal Richard Millener, the cost of repairs could become unmanageable, and in that case, he would be willing to see the hybrid units removed.
“I would still like it in terms of what it is about and what we’re trying to push in terms of the championship, with hybrid technology still being important. It’s still in road cars, and we’re seeing it in more and more newer road cars as well, especially as the uptake of electric vehicles is slower,” Millener noted.
“So the trend has shifted slightly, making it quite relevant in my view. But sadly, with the current rules on the safety of the units and the way they must be repaired after a shock, we’re facing extreme repair costs. That’s not feasible for us. So, this is not a request to remove the hybrid units because of their function; rather, it’s because we can’t repair and run them at an economical price for M-Sport. Honestly, we’re talking about a few million extra euros, and that’s just not something we can manage,” Millener stated firmly.
Millener shared that a vote has already been held on the removal of hybrid units.
“I know how we voted, and I have an idea of how a few others voted, but no final decision has been made,” Millener explained.
The rules of the WRC have been in a constant state of flux for some time. To outsiders, it appears that no one truly knows where the WRC is heading or even where it should be heading.
“It’s not good for the image from the outside, as I’ve said before. We need to ensure we have strong leadership and a clear image of where we’re headed, and currently, we’re struggling with that, so it’s something we need to improve. If we can resolve this matter, people may distort the reasons behind it—some may blame the team, others the FIA. For us, however, the reason comes down purely to the cost perspective: the supplier is unable to provide the product in a way that meets our requirements for it to work for us,” Millener stressed.
