The current Rally1 cars will remain in the top class for one more season. But in 2027, the category will be reshaped with the introduction of the so-called WRC27 regulations.
Rally1 cars will be consigned to history under the new technical rules. The next generation will be based on Rally2 machinery, retaining tubular chassis but adopting Rally2-derived engines, among other features.
The new regulations and cheaper cars are designed to attract fresh manufacturers and teams into the top class. At present, only Toyota and Hyundai operate as true factory outfits, with M-Sport receiving only limited technical support from Ford.
Toyota is the only current WRC team to have officially confirmed it is already developing a car for the 2027 regulations. Questions still surround Hyundai’s future, even though the team has confirmed its participation for next season.
Vincent Landais, co-driver to current title contender Sébastien Ogier, is far from convinced by the upcoming revolution. He admits it is hard to see where the championship is heading.
“Build cheaper cars again? I don’t know if that’s a good idea, but the regulations came a bit too late, and I feel not many (manufacturers) are ready,” Landais told French outlet Rallye-Sport.
Landais warned that, beyond Toyota, no other manufacturer has yet committed to developing a car for 2027.
“I’m clearly worried. Not for us (Toyota), because we’re not behind – on the contrary – but for the competition and rivalry in the championship. What happens if Toyota is the only manufacturer in this category?” he said.
He also admitted it is difficult to imagine how the future cars will look and perform.
“I’m the first to admit that Rally2 cars are less spectacular to watch. But I wasn’t against the idea of moving everyone into this category to maybe have 30 cars at the start in the top class. The goal is to have a proper fight, that’s what everyone loves,” Landais explained.
Ogier and Landais currently lead this year’s championship with three rounds remaining. The next event is the Central European Rally in two weeks’ time.
