New Owners Outline Vision for World Rally Championship
The future direction of the FIA World Rally Championship has been outlined by its new leadership following the acquisition of WRC Promoter by Cosmobilis and Park Square Capital.
Speaking at a joint press conference at Rally del Paraguay, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Cosmobilis Chairman Jean-Louis Mosca, and newly appointed WRC Promoter CEO Éric Boullier set out their plans for both the WRC and the European Rally Championship (ERC).
Protecting the Core Format
Newly appointed promoter chief Éric Boullier was quick to reassure traditional rally followers that the fundamental nature of the sport will remain unchanged.
“We will never, ever change the DNA of rallying,” Boullier stated. “We can reassure everybody, all of the stakeholders in the sport, and the fans first, that we will never, ever change the DNA.”
Digital Expansion and ‘WRC Arenas’
While the core competitive format stays, the promoter plans to modernize the championship’s reach and fan experience. A major focus will be placed on expanding digital content and social media presence to attract newer audiences.
On-site event delivery will also evolve. The new leadership aims to transform service parks into centralized event hubs, rebranded as “WRC Arenas,” featuring increased Saturday night entertainment and festival-style fan zones. Boullier also highlighted the potential for repeated single stages on Sundays, a format trialed in Estonia and Finland, to streamline spectator access and concentrate crowd locations.
Manufacturer and Calendar Strategy
Cosmobilis Chairman Jean-Louis Mosca confirmed the acquisition forms part of a long-term commercial strategy built around experience, branding, and sustainability, with the goal of expanding the WRC as a global benchmark for motorsport.
Addressing calendar expansion, Boullier noted high demand from prospective host nations, though any additions will be weighed against team logistics, costs, and environmental impact. FIA President Ben Sulayem emphasized that future decisions will rely on direct collaboration between the FIA, promoter, teams, and fans, stating that the sport is entering a distinct new operational phase.
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