WRC 2027 Regulations Finalized with Flexible Bodywork Designs

The FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) reached a significant milestone with the finalization of its 2027 technical regulations, highlighting flexible bodywork designs. This decision was confirmed following the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) meeting in Macau on June 10, 2025, affirming flexibility for manufacturers and tuners to create uniquely styled vehicles. With this change, can WRC attract more participants and reshape the global rallying landscape?

The WRC 2027 regulations, initially approved in December 2024, underwent six months of refinements. The primary focus is on bodywork, now allowing the use of sustainable materials, updated homologation criteria, and freedom in defining internal vehicle volumes. This aims to reduce costs to €345,000 per unit, utilizing Rally2 engines with sustainable fuel, retaining the tubular chassis from Rally1 cars, and introducing alternative powertrain options from 2028.

The FIA has established reference volumes for bodywork, granting manufacturers the liberty to design vehicles ranging from hatchbacks, SUVs, sedans, to entirely bespoke concepts. This move is intended to foster innovation and broaden participation, including from entities outside the daily rallying community. A released 2027 chassis render showcases an adaptable framework, with real-world crash tests scheduled for July and August 2025 to ensure safety standards.

Richard Millener of M-Sport noted that regulations are still being finalized, highlighting the time challenge for development. Meanwhile, Cyril Abiteboul of Hyundai expressed concerns that current rules do not reflect relevant technology for manufacturers, though he remains optimistic about competing in 2026. Tom Fowler from DirtFish sees a golden opportunity for privateers, predicting Rally2 cars could rival Rally1 in the future.

The tight timeline for design and homologation poses a significant hurdle, with final details approved in August 2025, just 16 months before launch. Hyundai’s uncertain participation adds pressure, while interest from “several entities” not currently involved is expected to expand the field. The FIA aims to make these regulations a global standard for regional championships, enhancing WRC’s appeal.

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