WRC’s Next Era Revealed: Saudi Finale, Ogier’s 9th Title & the New WRC 27 Rules

In this exclusive Race Industry Week interview, Peter Thul — WRC Promoter and two-time German National Co-Driver Champion — breaks down one of the most transformative moments in World Rally Championship history.Fresh off the dramatic Saudi Arabia season finale, Thul reflects on a championship decided on the very last stage, Sébastien Ogier’s historic ninth world title, and the bold roadmap toward the new WRC 27 regulations that will reshape the sport beginning in 2027.For the first time, Thul details how WRC will:• Slash top-category costs from ~€1M per rally to ~€345K per car• Transition from Rally1 to the new WRC 27 platform• Open the door to new manufacturers, tuners, and customer teams• Enable SUV body styles and wider brand identity• Create a real pathway from national rallying to the world stageHe also confirms:• 2026 as the final season of Rally1• Strategic calendar changes for Japan, Sardinia & potential new markets• Rally USA test event with 2027 WRC debut in view• Long-term integration with ARA and North American rallyingFrom sustainable fuels and future powertrain flexibility to the return of Lancia, the role of Toyota, Hyundai, Ford/M-Sport, and the potential of Chinese OEMs, this conversation delivers an unprecedented look at how the FIA and WRC are building a 10-year technical and commercial foundation for the sport.This episode is essential viewing for rally fans, manufacturers, engineers, team owners, tuners, and motorsport business leaders worldwide.RACE INDUSTRY WEEK was brought to you by:ETS Racing Fuels, Penske Racing Shocks, ARP, Inc., Scott Lewis Associates, Fifth Third Bank Motorsports, PEAK, Crower, & CTech Manufacturing.#WRC #WorldRallyChampionship #PeterThul #Ogier #SebastienOgier #WRC27#Rally1 #Rally2 #RallyRacing #Motorsports #FIA #RallySaudiArabia#RallyUSA #RallyMonteCarlo #MotorsportBusiness #RaceEngineering#SustainableFuels #OEM #HybridRacing #EPARTRADE #RaceIndustryWeek