Rally legend and former Toyota team principal Tommi Makinen has sounded the alarm over the WRC's new direction, warning it could be a step backward. He fears the upcoming regulation overhaul might cool the passion of rally fans.
The concern comes amid a critical situation: only Toyota has confirmed developing a car under the new regulations. Hyundai has declined, and M-Sport Ford has no plans to build a new car either.
Manufacturer Crisis at the New Era's Doorstep
The FIA has tried to bridge the gap by introducing a WRC Rally2 Kit for current Rally2 cars to bring them closer to the top class. M-Sport has at least taken up the offer, but Makinen doubts its effectiveness.
He argues the FIA should have allowed a transition year with more freedom. The requirement to contest the full championship with two cars, he says, is too heavy for smaller teams lacking budget.
A Big Gamble That Could Backfire
Makinen recalls how the more powerful cars in 2017 sparked huge enthusiasm. Now, with performance being reduced, he questions whether spectator interest will hold or fade away.
He also points to the politics behind the new rules, suggesting that not everyone has the sport's best interests at heart. Some may have personal stakes in shaping the regulations, a bitter reality rarely discussed openly.
Despite this, he admits more entries could boost the grid and attract attention. Yet the doubt over this new direction remains a big unanswered question. All eyes are now on how the WRC navigates this uncertain transitional season.
Baca Juga
Teemu Suninen di ambang gelar ERC di Wales, tapi harus menghadapi perlawanan sengit Kris Meeke. Akankah ia mengunci titel akhir pekan ini?
Rally Italia dihentikan setelah penonton tewas dalam kecelakaan fatal. Dua special stage batal, duka mendalam bagi keluarga korban.
Project Rally One akhirnya menggelar uji coba mobil WRC27 di Jerman. Bos tim ungkap progres dan target ambisius di Reli Monte Carlo 2027.
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