There's no hiding from the fact that the World Rally Championship is entering a crucial phase as it wishes to establish its future, improve its appeal and attract more manufacturers. And last weekend's Acropolis Rally gave both the series and the FIA every incentive to ensure that its pathway is defined when the governing body's president Mohammed Ben Sulayem uttered the words the majority of rally fans have been wishing to hear ever since 2008.
"It's not a secret I had a good meeting with Mr Akio Toyoda, and I asked him what we can do to attract manufacturers to the WRC and I listened to someone who is passionate – and he mentioned Subaru," recounted Ben Sulayem of his chat with the Toyota chairman at the Le Mans 24 Hours in June. Realistically it's 2027, when the WRC is expected to launch new regulations, that would offer a window for Subaru should the project receive a green light. While those 2027 WRC regulations are yet to be revealed, Motorsport.com has been told by the FIA that hybrid-powered cars using sustainable fuel will continue, with a move to full electric or hydrogen power expected to be ruled out.
In my opinion, Ben Sulayem shouldn't have dropped this bombshell just yet, but waited until the 2027 regulations have been formalised. This news will likely create even more pressure on Subaru to make this happen, and it could quite conceivably backfire, damaging any progress made so far. Whatever happens, it's all out in the open now, and Ben Sulayem's words will sharpen the minds of the key stakeholders to ensure that the WRC has a clear pathway that maximises promotion and return on investment for manufacturers. This will be crucial to not only entice Subaru and other marques but also keep Toyota, Hyundai and Ford in the championship.