FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is expressing a strong belief that Argentina will soon reclaim its place on the World Rally Championship calendar. This South American country, deeply rooted in WRC history since 1980, saw its participation interrupted by the global pandemic. However, with renewed interest and successful regional events, there's a tangible path for its return, potentially as early as 2028, after undergoing necessary evaluations.
Argentina's Potential Comeback to the World Rally Championship
In recent developments, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has ignited hope for the return of Argentina to the World Rally Championship (WRC) schedule. This prospect arose during a significant press conference in Paraguay, where the championship's new owners outlined their future vision for the sport. Ben Sulayem explicitly stated that discussions are actively underway regarding Argentina's re-inclusion. This marks a renewed effort following unsuccessful negotiations in 2022 to bring the event back by 2023. Historically, Argentina has been a cornerstone of the WRC, hosting rallies regularly from 1980 until 2019, only missing two seasons. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted this long-standing tradition. However, the WRC made its return to South America in 2023 with a round in Chile, followed by Paraguay in 2024, which has since secured an initial three-year agreement and even earned the 'best rally of the year award' for 2025. The Paraguayan event, conveniently situated near the Argentine border in Encarnacion, further highlights the region's strong engagement with rally sports. Ben Sulayem, drawing from his personal experience of rallying in Argentina twice, lauded the country's excellent stages and passionate fanbase. He underscored that while various nations are eager to join the WRC calendar, the FIA and its promoter are carefully crafting a holistic schedule, balancing logistical considerations with the number of events. For Argentina, the earliest feasible return would be 2028, as a candidate rally would first need to be organized for the FIA's thorough assessment. This period of evaluation is crucial, especially as the 2027 WRC calendar is expected to feature three new events, with Scotland, the USA, and Rome currently completing their candidate event assessments.
The potential return of Argentina to the WRC calendar is more than just adding another race; it symbolizes the re-establishment of a cherished tradition and the acknowledgment of a vibrant rally culture. This move could inject fresh energy into the championship, benefiting both the sport and the passionate fan base in South America. The FIA's supportive stance, coupled with ongoing negotiations, suggests a promising future for rally racing in the region, reflecting a broader strategy to expand the sport's global footprint while honoring its rich history.
