WRC weighs bringing back qualifying stage for gravel rallies
WRC officials are discussing reintroducing a qualifying stage to set gravel rally start order, as new 2027 technical rules could otherwise give a big advantage to drivers starting later. FIA, Toyota and reigning champion Sébastien Ogier have all commented on the issue.
The World Rally Championship (WRC) is once again discussing the possibility of reintroducing a qualifying stage, a format previously used in 2012 and 2013. Back then, the system helped determine driver start order on gravel rallies, where cars running first have to clear the top layer of loose gravel from the road, losing grip and time compared with those starting later.
The issue has resurfaced because of new technical regulations set to take effect in 2027, which will introduce a new generation of cars with a smaller power gap between the top class and second-tier machines. Without a properly adjusted start order, this could create a significant advantage for drivers who start later on a cleaned racing line.
FIA and team reactions
FIA Road Sport Director Emilia Abel confirmed the matter is being examined as part of the discussion on sporting regulations. She said all options are currently on the table, but any solution would first need to be aligned with the promoter, then reviewed by the commission, and finally approved.
Toyota's WRC technical director Tom Fowler highlighted the seriousness of the situation, noting that on a current gravel rally the leading Rally1 car can barely beat a Rally2 car running around 12th, despite a power difference of roughly 100 horsepower between them. In his view, the goal should be ensuring the most competitive driver in the most competitive car can still win, rather than having the outcome distorted by an unusual start order.
Reigning world champion Sébastien Ogier, who has personally experienced the problem, echoed the concern. He pointed out that a Rally2 car starting around 25th on an already-cleaned road would have a major grip advantage and could easily outpace the new WRC27 cars. He said a qualifying format should be introduced to find a fairer way of setting the start order.
