Elfyn Evans is on the brink of the 2026 WRC title after the season finale in Saudi Arabia was officially cancelled. The decision comes amid ongoing regional instability in the Middle East that has affected logistical arrangements. As a result, Rally Italia Sardegna on 1-4 October will now close the season instead of the planned Jeddah event.
Reasons and Logistical Impact
In an official statement, the FIA and WRC Promoter confirmed that the WRC element of Rally Saudi Arabia cannot proceed. WRC Promoter CEO Eric Boullier cited "ongoing regional developments and the resulting logistical challenges" as the main factors. The FIA emphasised that it had explored every possible avenue with the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF) and other stakeholders, but the uncertain situation forced the cancellation. Nevertheless, Saudi Arabia remained ready to host a safe and successful event, and national systems and other sports and entertainment events continue as normal.
Rally Saudi Arabia itself will not disappear entirely from the calendar. The event will still take place on 12-15 November, but solely as part of the FIA Middle East Rally Championship (MERC). This decision was made to maintain regional competition and honour commitments to local organisers. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem stated that such decisions are never easy, especially after the hard work of everyone involved. However, he stressed that the focus is now firmly on the future, with hopes of bringing the WRC back to Saudi Arabia in 2027.
Evans Leads Standings, Pajari and Solberg Chase
With this cancellation, Elfyn Evans is edging closer to the world title. The Toyota driver now leads the standings by 17 points over teammate Sami Pajari. Oliver Solberg, in third, still has a mathematical chance to snatch the title, trailing by 21 points. However, with only one round remaining, Rally Italia Sardegna, Solberg's chances are slim. Evans only needs a consistent performance in Sardinia to seal the title.
Rally Italia Sardegna, previously scheduled as round 13, now becomes the season finale. The tough gravel tracks of Sardinia will be the final test for the drivers. For Evans, this is a golden opportunity to secure his first title after years as a contender. Meanwhile, Pajari and Solberg will try their utmost to spoil Evans's celebration.
Speculation Extends to Formula 1
The decision to drop Saudi Arabia from the WRC calendar has also sparked speculation regarding Formula 1 races in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates scheduled for late November and early December. The unstable regional situation could affect the smooth running of those events. The FIA and F1 must monitor developments closely to ensure safety and logistical feasibility. Although there has been no official statement from F1, the WRC cancellation signals that external factors can alter race plans.
Thus, the 2026 WRC season will end earlier than planned. Rally Italia Sardegna will not only be the finale but also the decider. Evans is in the driver's seat to claim the title, but Pajari and Solberg have not given up. All eyes will be on Sardinia in early October.
Read Also
WRC 2026 finale moves to Italy after Saudi Arabia dropped. Elfyn Evans nears title, Ogier loses crown, Virves wins WRC2.
FIA cancels Rally Saudi Arabia from 2026 WRC calendar. Decision raises questions about F1's Middle East races. Full story here.
Rally Saudi Arabia 2026 cancelled, leaving WRC with one decider in Italy. Elfyn Evans leads by 21 points over Pajari and Solberg.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!