Adrien Fourmaux can't hide his admiration for Rally Chile. The Hyundai driver has just experienced the rough gravel stages around Concepcion, and for him, the event holds a special place on the WRC calendar. But behind the praise, the threat of losing its spot looms large.
Since its debut in 2019, Chile was absent due to the pandemic, then returned in 2023 and has been a fixture ever since. Unfortunately, a deal with the WRC Promoter for future seasons has yet to be signed. The local government has pledged financial support, but certainty is still missing. Meanwhile, the Promoter is reportedly exploring the return of Rally Argentina and even a potential US round. In other words, Chile's seat at the table is far from secure.
Fourmaux has spoken out. For him, Chile deserves to stay not only for its organization but also for the character of its stages. "The fans are fantastic and really support us. Many of them line the stages and are respectful," he said. "The stages are fantastic to drive. It's pure driving, not just flat out, braking and turning. It's about driving from corner to corner, plus tyre management."
In September's edition, Fourmaux fought at the front and ultimately finished third. His maiden WRC victory remains elusive, but a podium in Chile gave him satisfaction. "For sure, I wished I would have been on the top step, but I'm very pleased because this is one of those events where pure driving is tested," he stressed.
Fourmaux's focus now shifts to Rally Sardinia next week. The 2026 season finale is his last chance to claim a win with the current Rally1 cars. Sardinia is traditionally held in mid-summer, but this time it's moved to autumn. That change could affect road conditions.
"I think it could also rain in Sardinia at this time of year. We will discover whether it is different or not. But overall, Sardinia is Sardinia. It's a rough event. It's narrow and sandy, so it's tricky. There are rocks everywhere, so it's going to be a very tough one again," he predicted.
For Hyundai, the result in Sardinia could set the tone for next season. As for Chile, backing from drivers like Fourmaux provides moral ammunition amid uncertainty. Will the WRC Promoter listen? Only time will tell.
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