The World Rally Championship (WRC) is gearing up for an exciting 2026 season, with plans to add an additional asphalt round to its calendar. As the demand to join the schedule grows, the championship is looking to expand its reach and offer a more balanced mix of tarmac and gravel rallies.
Expanding to 14 rounds for the upcoming season, the WRC is already eyeing 2026 for further developments. Several nations have expressed interest in being part of the 2026 bill, with the USA being a highly anticipated return through a gravel event based in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
While expanding into the US is a key objective, the championship also aims to increase the number of asphalt events in its calendar. With a target of five asphalt events in a likely 14-round season, the WRC is looking to provide a diverse range of rally experiences for both drivers and fans.
The upcoming season will see a continuation of the calendar featuring four asphalt rallies. Monte Carlo, the Central European Rally, and Japan have retained their spots on the schedule, while the Canary Islands has stepped up from the European Rally Championship to replace Croatia, which is also vying for a comeback in 2026.
Ireland is another strong contender to fulfill the WRC’s asphalt ambition. The nation has been working on a three-year bid to bring the WRC back to the island, with plans to rotate the rally through three locations – Waterford, Kerry, and Limerick – across a proposed three-year deal. Despite facing challenges in securing funding from the Irish government for 2025, Motorsport Ireland remains dedicated to bringing the WRC to Ireland in 2026.
Motorsport Ireland estimates that hosting the rally could generate €300 million for the local economy, highlighting the significant economic impact of hosting WRC events. Talks between the government and the WRC Promoter have continued, indicating a strong push to make Ireland a part of the 2026 calendar.
WRC event director Simon Larkin emphasized the importance of adding another tarmac event to balance out the schedule. Working closely with Motorsport Ireland and President Aiden Harper, Larkin expressed the championship’s eagerness to include Ireland as a fantastic candidate for an additional asphalt round.
During a visit to Ireland, Larkin met with members of the Irish government to discuss the country’s WRC plan. Presenting a compelling case for hosting the rally, Larkin and his team are focused on showcasing the potential benefits of bringing the WRC to Ireland, both in terms of economic impact and international exposure.
As discussions continue with various stakeholders, the WRC is committed to proving the value of government funding for hosting events. Through economic impact studies and data analysis, the championship aims to demonstrate that investment in WRC rallies brings tangible returns in terms of tourism, local business revenue, and international visibility.
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Chattanooga, Tennessee: A Gravel Event Return
The USA’s long-awaited comeback to the WRC through a gravel event based in Chattanooga, Tennessee is a significant highlight for the 2026 season. With growing interest in rally racing in the US, this event is expected to draw a large audience and showcase the excitement of WRC competition on American soil.
Ireland’s Bid for the WRC
Ireland’s bid to host a WRC event in 2026 has garnered attention for its ambitious plans and economic potential. Despite initial funding challenges, Motorsport Ireland remains determined to bring the championship to the island, highlighting the country’s rich history in rallying and its enthusiastic fan base.
Economic Impact of WRC Events
The WRC’s focus on economic impact studies and data analysis underscores the championship’s commitment to demonstrating the value of hosting rallies in different regions. By showcasing the financial benefits and positive outcomes of WRC events, the championship aims to secure continued support from governments and local communities.