The upcoming Rally Italia Sardegna, scheduled from 30 May-2 June, has unveiled a groundbreaking new format that aims to condense the entire event within a span of just 48 hours. Organizers of the Italian gravel rally have designed a compact route covering 16 competitive stages, spanning a total distance of 266.48 kilometers. This heralds a new era for the World Rally Championship (WRC) as it aligns with the upcoming FIA 2025 guidelines, which are yet to be officially released.
A Desire for Change
The WRC has been contemplating the implementation of rule changes to facilitate more condensed rallies, and this revamped format is seen as the first step towards achieving this goal. Traditionally, rally events have spanned stage distances exceeding 300 kilometers. The introduction of shorter, more compact rallies presents an exciting opportunity to enhance the intensity and competitiveness of the WRC.
The Rally Italia Sardegna Experience
Rally Italia Sardegna will return to the picturesque city of Alghero, which also hosted the event in 2022. The service park will be set up in the same location as two years ago, providing a familiar backdrop for both competitors and spectators. The rally will kick off with the shakedown on Friday morning, followed by the start of the first four stages at 1:30pm local time.
Friday afternoon will witness two loops of two stages, culminating in an end-of-day service. Saturday’s schedule will feature eight stages, separated by a midday tyre-fitting zone, in order to further challenge the crews. The day’s route will consist of two passes of four stages before returning to Alghero for another end-of-day service. The final leg on Sunday will comprise four stages, with the rally reaching its conclusion at 1:15pm local time.
The adoption of this new format for Rally Italia Sardegna serves as a pioneering move towards the potential transformation of WRC events beyond 2025. It underscores the championship’s commitment to adapting to the evolving preferences of both participants and fans. This revision arrives at a time when the WRC is undergoing multiple changes, such as the recent debut of a revised points-scoring system at the season opener in Monte Carlo.
Anticipating an Exciting Future
As the WRC explores the possibilities offered by this condensed format, rally enthusiasts can look forward to a more action-packed and spectator-friendly experience. The shortened duration of the event will intensify the competition among drivers, demanding their utmost concentration and skill throughout the race. Moreover, this format change may provide organizers with valuable insights to optimize future rallies and ensure their continued success.
The new format of Rally Italia Sardegna represents a bold step towards compactness in the WRC. The rally’s condensed schedule promises heightened excitement, as competitors navigate through scenic gravel terrain within a remarkably short timeframe. As the motorsport world eagerly awaits this transformation, it is evident that the WRC is committed to embracing change and devising innovative ways to captivate its global audience.
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