The World Rally Championship (WRC) is actively exploring a return to the United States after a 40-year absence, with preliminary talks and site surveys planned for June in Kentucky and Tennessee. The move reflects a broader strategy by the FIA – motorsport’s governing body – to capitalize on the growing appetite for global racing series within the US market, spurred by Formula One’s recent success.
Assessing the US Rally Landscape
The last WRC event held in the US was the 1988 Olympus Rally in Washington State. Since then, American rally racing has continued through the American Rally Association (ARA), a domestic series featuring prominent drivers like Travis Pastrana, David Higgins, and Ken Block. Despite the lack of a global WRC presence, US rally culture has remained active. The FIA’s interest is likely driven by financial opportunities, given F1’s gains in the US.
FIA Evaluation & Stakeholder Engagement
FIA officials will evaluate infrastructure in Kentucky and Tennessee to determine if they meet the requirements for hosting a WRC event. They will also meet with ARA organizers, volunteers, and fans to discuss logistics and gauge support for a potential return. This stakeholder engagement is crucial; a successful event requires buy-in from the existing US rallying community.
Why Now?
The decision to re-enter the US market comes at a time when motorsport popularity is surging in the country. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the US as a “growth opportunity,” citing its “cultural DNA” for motorsports and rapidly expanding interest in global competition. The return of the WRC could also attract greater interest in rally-inspired vehicles from automakers, potentially revitalizing brands like Subaru.
Timeline & Expectations
If the candidate event is successful, a US WRC event could be added to the calendar by 2027. The potential impact extends beyond the racing itself, with implications for the ARA series and broader automotive interest. Rally racing’s unique blend of speed, skill, and visually striking action could resonate with US audiences, solidifying its place in the country’s motorsports landscape.
