WRC 2026: A Global Adventure Begins in Monte Carlo
Fans of the 2026 WRC can mark their calendars—FIA and WRC Promoter just dropped details for a truly global season. Four continents, 14 rounds, and a packed schedule that mixes tradition with a few clever updates set this season apart. The year starts in style as always, with Rallye Monte-Carlo, running January 22–25. The iconic opener serves up icy alpine roads, dramatic mountain switchbacks, and a show-stopping street stage through Monte Carlo’s glittering downtown.
Next up, crews face the cold and challenging conditions of Rally Sweden (February 12–15), where snow and high speeds are the real test. Then, it’s across to Africa for the marathon Safari Rally Kenya (March 12–15), a favorite for both its wildlife sightings and rough, unpredictable gravel stages. Rally Croatia slides back onto the WRC card April 9–12 after a stint in the European Rally Championship, bringing fast asphalt and a big fan base.
The first half of the calendar really plays with surfaces. There’s the new-look Gran Canaria (April 23–26) for fans of tarmac action, then the back-to-back contrasts of Portugal (gravel, May 7–10) and Rally Japan (asphalt, May 28–31). The spring slot for Rally Japan is new—organizers purposefully squeezed it in early to prevent a long-run of gravel events, cutting down the effect of road sweeping. That’s where the early leaders usually clear loose gravel for those behind, giving a subtle advantage to later starters. By tweaking the order, the aim is to keep things as fair and even as possible among the top runners.
Second-Half Highlights: Gravel Gauntlet and a Desert Finale
After Japan’s twisty tarmac, teams roll into the summer with a string of gravel events in Estonia and Finland, both known for lightning-fast stages and huge jumps. Rally Finland barely gives the drivers a breather, with its punishing pace and enormous crowds. Then, it’s a long haul to South America for a double-header: Paraguay and Chile, two rounds known for passionate local fans and challenging hill-country courses.
The saga wraps up in style as the crews head to the Middle East for a desert finale in Saudi Arabia (November 11–14). Expect heat, dunes, and a whole new kind of challenge as drivers go wheel-to-wheel for the last points of the year. But sharp-eyed fans may notice a few missing names. Despite early rumors and interest, rallies in the US, UK, and Ireland didn’t make the final cut. Organizers weighed options, but the chosen events promise a mix of classic venues and fresh competition.
Those pulling the strings behind the scenes are clear about their goals. Jona Siebel, Managing Director at WRC Promoter, says the calendar isn’t just about geography—it's about mixing up conditions, maintaining sporting fairness, and keeping everyone on their toes. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem stresses how the lineup underscores rallying’s wide-reaching appeal, connecting fans and teams across multiple regions and cultures.
Major manufacturers are getting onboard too. Hyundai’s early announcement for 2026 gives the series a needed boost of credibility and resources, hinting that the top teams expect a season worth fighting for. Everyone’s got their eyes on the championship, drivers are prepping, and the stage is set for a year of tight racing and global storylines.