WRC's UK Return Closer: Scotland Set to Host 2027 Round

After a long wait since 2019, the World Rally Championship is one step closer to returning to the UK. Scotland has emerged as a strong candidate to host a WRC round in 2027, following a successful candidate event last week.

An FIA delegation attended the Grampian Forest Rally, part of the British Rally Championship, to assess Scotland's readiness. They worked closely with Motorsport UK and local organizers to evaluate sporting, safety, and operational aspects.

The assessment included the experience of key rally officials and their ability to operate at WRC level. The delegation also visited proposed stages and locations for the 2027 event, reviewing the wider route and infrastructure requirements.

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FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem called this a significant step. "Bringing the FIA World Rally Championship back to the United Kingdom is a hugely important step for global rallying. The UK is one of motor sport's historic heartlands," he said.

Malcolm Wilson, FIA Deputy President for Sport and founder of M-Sport, expressed his excitement. "To see the championship return to my home nation for the first time since 2019 will be particularly special. The stages in Scotland rank among the very best in the world," he added.

Hugh Chambers, CEO of Motorsport UK, emphasized the value of the candidate event. "Over four days, the FIA delegation saw the strength of the route, the quality of the facilities in Aberdeen, and the commitment behind this project," he stated.

The FIA will now finalize its reports and share findings with WRC stakeholders. This will determine the next steps toward official calendar inclusion. If approved, the UK will host a WRC round for the first time in nearly a decade.