The World Rally Championship stage is set to welcome a new face. Project Rally One has publicly unveiled its new WRC27 car for the first time, marking a major step towards its planned FIA World Rally Championship debut in 2027. Led by motorsport engineer Lionel Hansen, Project Rally One is the first privately led constructor project manufactured under the WRC27 regulations, which opens the championship’s top category to independent tuners as well as traditional manufacturers.
Development has been intense. Bruno Thiry and Stephane Lefebvre carried out five days and 750km of initial tarmac development work. The results form a crucial foundation before switching to gravel. Newly crowned ERC Champion Teemu Suninen is set to take over driving duties when the testing programme moves to gravel in October.
“Once homologation has been completed, we will continue with further test sessions, again on asphalt next week, before moving onto gravel in October,” said project leader Lionel Hansen. This statement confirms the team is on schedule. The objective is clear: two Rally One cars will compete on the 2027 Rallye Monte-Carlo. “It is a demanding challenge, but it remains a realistic one. There is still a lot to happen between now and then,” he added.
Under the bonnet, the car uses a VAG Group-badged engine related to the unit found in the Skoda Fabia RS Rally2, extensively modified to meet the requirements of the WRC27 regulations. Its bespoke bodywork has been developed and constructed by Paris-based Faster Racing. This collaboration demonstrates a serious approach to creating a competitive car in the top class.
Project Rally One’s move has been praised by WRC Promotor. COO Julien Vial called it an exciting example of the ambition WRC is attracting as the championship continues to evolve. “What is particularly impressive is seeing something created effectively from a blank sheet – bringing together the technical programme, the people, the partners and a new identity. Getting a project like this from an idea to a physical car requires significant commitment, investment and belief from everyone involved,” said Vial.
Vial added that Project Rally One is about more than simply having another car on the stages. WRC wants to continue to be an attractive environment for established manufacturers and teams, but also for ambitious newcomers that can bring fresh ideas, new stories and new opportunities for brands and partners. “Project Rally One is a very tangible example of that,” he emphasised.
With WRC27 regulations opening the door for independent constructors, Project Rally One’s step could set a precedent for similar projects. If successful, it will not only enrich the WRC grid but also drive technical innovation and expand the fan base. However, challenges remain: homologation, extensive testing, and competition against established manufacturer teams. All eyes are now on the project’s progress ahead of its debut at Monte-Carlo 2027.
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