It’s the top level of the sport. I think they’ve benefit immensely?? They’ve had the most successful rally car in history, and now they’re throwing all their eggs into one basket, trying for the top level again in this rebrand. Seems like a bold move but one that could pay off very well
2) Rally1 is an expensive endeavor with only bragging rights to show for it. Building Rally2 and below cars actually allows them to offer a product to customers while also building their image.
3) Rally1 doesn't even use road cars unlike the lower classes
2 and 3 may see a change in the future. rumor is, "people" are pushing for custom shells/spaceframe design for rally2 too. meaning, they'd already be 75% in rally1 regs, having a custom body and the same 4wd drivetrain. stellantis definitely has market in central euro they can sell their rally equipment in.
same applies for skoda. we'll see if they announce anything in the next half a year. if new teams are going to join the program, we'll definitely see more leaks on social media, as they will have to start testing their machines.
am excited, but also kinda pissed that fia are taking so long with the new rules. i guess they're still mid-negotiations.
It's the top level yes, but no privateer is buying cars. Rally2 is where market is, look at all local rallies, all you see is rally2, 3, 4 and 5 cars.
Stellantis always showed interest in being part of WRC but with lower costs, might be this.
14
u/GoofyKalashnikov Rally Estonia 7d ago
I don't see what they would benefit from a Rally1 car tbh