The FIA made the official announcement on Friday, putting an end to earlier speculation. While unofficial information had been circulating, the confirmation solidifies the decision.
The current Rally1 hybrid cars were introduced into the championship’s top class in 2022, with the hybrid units supplied by German company Compact Dynamics.
The decision to discontinue their use was taken following an electronic vote by the World Motor Sport Council on Friday.
“Following extensive dialogue with key stakeholders, it became clear that continuing to use the plug-in hybrid units provided under the existing supplier agreement was no longer in the best interests of the FIA World Rally Championship. We can now move forward in full confidence that the WRC becomes even better and stronger, with developments that are in line with the working perspective for the 2027 technical regulations,” FIA Chief Technical and Safety Officer Xavier Mestelan-Pinon stated.
“Once again, we have highlighted the championship’s ability to adapt without diluting the sporting spectacle, while responsibly embracing the challenges of our times. We are also pleased that the use of 100 per cent sustainable fuel remains a cornerstone of the championship’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact.”
From 2025 onwards, the minimum weight of Rally1 cars will be reduced from 1,260 kilograms to 1,180 kilograms. Additionally, the size of the air restrictor will be reduced from 36 millimetres to 35 millimetres to maintain an equivalent power-to-weight ratio between the 2024 and 2025 vehicles.
The technical regulations for the WRC will undergo a more comprehensive overhaul for the 2027 season, with the new rules set to be decided on 11 December.
Hybrid units will be utilised for the final time in this season’s concluding round, which takes place next week in Japan.
