FIA completes ‘Deal of the Century’ for World and European Rally Championships
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The FIA has finalized a long-term commercial rights agreement for the World Rally Championship (WRC) and European Rally Championship (ERC).
- The deal, following Cosmobilis and Park Square Capital's acquisition of WRC Promoter GmbH, aims to bring significant investment and growth to the sport.
- New technical regulations are set to be introduced in 2027, focusing on safety, competitiveness, and affordability, supported by a new FIA Growth Fund.
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has announced a landmark long-term commercial rights agreement for the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) and FIA European Rally Championship (ERC). This significant deal follows the acquisition of WRC Promoter GmbH by Cosmobilis and Park Square Capital, marking a new era for both championships.
Under the leadership of FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the agreement is designed to inject substantial new investment into rallying. It aims to strengthen and expand the sport's global portfolio, making rallying more accessible, competitive, and commercially successful. The FIA and the new promoter team, comprising Cosmobilis and Park Square Capital, share a commitment to increasing the sport's global audience and enhancing fan engagement through stronger storytelling and multi-platform content.
A pivotal aspect of this new chapter is the upcoming overhaul of WRC's technical regulations, scheduled to take effect in 2027. These next-generation regulations are intended to improve safety, competitiveness, and affordability at the highest level of the sport. Furthermore, a new FIA Growth Fund will be established to support projects that drive the success and development of rallying worldwide, from grassroots participation to elite championships.
The new promoter has assembled an expert team, led by newly appointed CEO Éric Boullier, an experienced motorsports executive. Their ambitious plans focus on putting fans at the heart of the sport, making rallying more exciting and engaging. The FIA anticipates significantly increased visibility for its brand across global events and broadcasts as a result of this agreement.
FIA President H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem described the agreement as "truly the deal of the century for rallying," expressing optimism about its potential to transform the sport. The deal is expected to deliver tangible benefits for fans, competitors, event organizers, and the FIA's Member Clubs, laying a strong foundation for rallying's long-term success through robust governance and regulations.
This is truly the deal of the century for rallying, and I am p
Originally published by Arab Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.