FIA President welcomes Argentina’s potential return to World Rally Championship in 2028
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has welcomed plans for a World Rally Championship (WRC) candidate rally in Argentina in 2027, describing it as an important step towards the country’s potential return to the championship calendar in 2028.
The candidate event is scheduled for March 2027 in Córdoba as part of the FIA CODASUR Rally Championship. The location holds personal significance for Ben Sulayem, who secured a Group N victory and finished sixth overall in the WRC there in 1993. He also earned his first WRC points in Argentina in 1991, finishing seventh overall.
During the three-day candidate rally, FIA delegates will evaluate sporting operations, safety and medical arrangements, infrastructure and organisational capabilities. The assessment will also cover the proposed rally stages and service park facilities to determine whether the event meets the standards required to host a WRC round.
Working with its Member Club, the Automóvil Club Argentino (ACA), and the local organisers, the FIA will identify areas that may require further development. A successful assessment would make Rally Argentina eligible for inclusion in the WRC calendar from 2028.
FIA President highlights Argentina’s rallying heritage
Ben Sulayem said Argentina has a strong motorsport tradition, passionate fans and challenging terrain, adding that he has lasting memories of competing in Córdoba.
He said the candidate rally represents the first step towards fulfilling his commitment to bringing top-level motorsport back to the country following his visit earlier in 2026.
He also pointed to the championship’s new phase following the Deal of the Century and its partnership with the new WRC Promoter, which he said would support increased investment and continued global growth.
Ben Sulayem added that Argentina’s return would generate excitement among local fans while contributing to the championship’s international momentum.
Plans include iconic stages and a new WRC Arena
First held in 1980, Rally Argentina became one of the WRC’s established events, known for its demanding gravel stages, including the iconic El Cóndor stage, and strong spectator following.
The rally traditionally attracted tens of thousands of spectators to the mountains surrounding Córdoba, creating an atmosphere that made it popular among drivers and fans.
Preparations for the proposed 2028 event are already underway. Route planning is exploring the possible return of celebrated stages such as El Cóndor, while organisers are also considering a new WRC Arena within the sporting precinct surrounding Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba. The proposed facility would incorporate the service park and spectator entertainment areas.
WRC continues to expand its global calendar
The potential return of Rally Argentina comes as the WRC continues to expand its international presence. Three new events in the United States, the United Kingdom and Italy are scheduled to make their championship debuts in 2027.
FIA Deputy President for Sport Malcolm Wilson OBE welcomed Argentina’s progress towards a return, highlighting the country’s history in the championship and the enthusiasm of its rally fans.
He said the candidate event represents an encouraging step as the WRC works to expand its global reach and reconnect with established motorsport destinations.
