The 2026 World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar is starting to come together. Plans are being made to bring rallying to new places and also welcome back some popular events. WRC event director, Simon Larkin, revealed at Rally Islas Canarias that “There is not a huge amount that we are planning to change”.
USA likely to join the WRC calendar
The USA is on course to join the WRC calendar in 2026. A multi-year contract has already been signed to bring rallying’s top series back to North America. If approved by the FIA, it would mark the first U.S. WRC event since the Olympus Rally in 1988.
The rally would take place on gravel roads in Tennessee, with a base in Chattanooga. Last year, a trial event was held in the area. Another is planned for later this year. These test events help show if the location can meet WRC standards.
The WRC Promoter has invested money into the project and is working closely with local rally groups and the FIA. Final approval is still needed, and the event must meet the safety and organisational levels required for WRC.
WRC event director Simon Larkin said the U.S. rally is a top priority. He explained that while rallying in the U.S. is different from Europe, the plan is to build up local teams and safety systems.
Croatia Confirms WRC Return in 2026 and 2027
Croatia has signed a new deal to return to the WRC in 2026 and 2027. The country first hosted a WRC round in 2021 and quickly became a fan favourite thanks to its tricky asphalt roads and big crowds.
Although Croatia is not on the 2025 calendar due to funding issues, it will host a European Rally Championship (ERC) event this year. The new deal ensures that it will be back in the WRC the year after.
Simon Larkin praised the event and said it brings good value to the championship. Croatia’s return means there will be at least four asphalt rallies in 2026, joining Monte Carlo, Japan, and the Canary Islands.
It remains to be seen, however, if any of the current rallies on this year’s calendar, especially those with contracts ending in 2025, will be dropped to make space for Croatia’s return.
New Rallies Unlikely Beyond USA and Croatia
Several countries, including Indonesia, Ireland, and Scotland, have shown interest in joining the WRC. However, Larkin said it’s unlikely that any new locations apart from the U.S. and Croatia will be added in 2026. Talks with these countries are continuing for future years, especially 2027.
If everything goes well, the full 2026 calendar, which may include more than 14 events, will be announced in July.