The World Rally Championship (WRC) is considering a comeback to the United States following a four-decade hiatus. While Formula One often garners widespread recognition, dedicated motorsport enthusiasts recognize the unparalleled skill and exhilarating action displayed by rally drivers. The last WRC event in the U.S. took place in 1988, the Olympus Rally in Washington, but this long break may soon conclude.
In pursuit of this revival, the FIA, the governing body for WRC and other premier motorsports, plans to host a "candidate event" in the U.S. this June. This exploratory visit will involve assessing potential rally stages in Kentucky and Tennessee, alongside engaging with American rally enthusiasts, event organizers, promoters, and volunteers. The American Rally Association (ARA), which currently hosts numerous national and regional rally competitions in the U.S., has seen a significant surge in the sport's popularity, setting the stage for renewed WRC interest.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has expressed strong commitment to expanding the FIA's presence in the U.S., emphasizing the country's deep-rooted motorsport culture and its burgeoning enthusiasm for international competitions. He believes that rallying can become a cornerstone of this future expansion. If the candidate event proves successful, the WRC anticipates adding a U.S. event to its calendar as early as 2027, a move that could significantly bolster the ARA's profile and potentially inspire automotive manufacturers to reintroduce rally-inspired road vehicles, such as a revamped Subaru STI.
This prospective return of the World Rally Championship to American soil represents a vibrant opportunity for motorsport, promising to captivate a new generation of fans and reignite a passion for rally racing across the nation. It reflects a positive trajectory for global sports, where dedication, skill, and the thrill of competition unite people across continents.
