The World Rally Championship (WRC) has reached a historic milestone with the acquisition of its commercial rights by French automotive company Cosmobilis and private credit investor Park Square Capital. This long-term deal, described as the “deal of the century” by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, is set to bring substantial investment and growth to the sport.
The announcement, made during Rally Finland, marks the end of a prolonged sale process that had left the future of the WRC in limbo. The new commercial rights holders have outlined ambitious plans to enhance the championship, making it more exciting, accessible, and engaging for fans worldwide.
The Path to the Deal
The journey to this landmark agreement was not without its challenges. The sale process of WRC Promoter GmbH, which began two years ago, created uncertainty and delayed crucial decisions regarding sporting regulations, calendars, and promotional strategies. This uncertainty had a chilling effect on potential investors, with only Toyota committing to developing a new car for the 2027 rules.
The stalemate was finally broken with the announcement of the deal, which is expected to provide clarity and confidence to manufacturers considering investing in the WRC. The new commercial rights holder plans to unveil its vision for the future at Rally Paraguay later this month.
Reactions from Hyundai and M-Sport Ford
Hyundai, one of the current Rally1 teams, has been vocal about the lack of information regarding the future of the WRC. The brand has ruled out developing a 2027 car for next year, leaving it with the option to run its Rally2 car against the new WRC27 cars. The recent announcement is seen as a positive step that could help Hyundai secure board approval to continue in the WRC.
“I think for the championship, it’s a very important step,” said Hyundai’s sporting director Andrew Wheatley. “We need to just make sure we get the last bits together because we can’t put forward a proposal until we know exactly what we’re dealing with.”
M-Sport Ford, another key player in the WRC, is also keeping a close eye on the future of the championship. The British squad plans to develop a Rally2 update kit, indicating its intention to participate next year. Team principal Rich Millener expressed optimism about the deal, stating that it provides a stable base for the championship to build on.
“For it to be officially announced with clarity and a direction for the long term is really positive and very exciting news,” Millener said. “It now gives a stable base for the championship to build on.”
The Vision for the Future
The new commercial rights holders have outlined ambitious plans to take the WRC and ERC to the next level. Through stronger storytelling, enhanced distribution, and new multi-platform content, fans will be closer to the action than ever before. The FIA has also confirmed the establishment of a new FIA Growth Fund to support the success and development of rallying worldwide.
Eric Boullier, the former Lotus and McLaren F1 boss, has been appointed as the CEO of WRC Promoter. Boullier, who has a deep understanding of the sporting and commercial aspects of motorsport, expressed his enthusiasm and determination to make the championships even more compelling.
“I take on this challenge with enthusiasm and determination, but also with humility and a strong sense of responsibility,” Boullier said. “The goal is clear: to establish the WRC and ERC as world-class global brands and a driver of sustainable growth.”
The landmark deal is expected to usher in a new era for the World Rally Championship, with significant investment and a renewed focus on fan engagement. As the sport looks to the future, the stage is set for an exciting chapter in the history of rallying.
