The World Rally Championship is preparing for an important regulatory shift in 2026, as the FIA has approved the introduction of mandatory rest hours for all rallies. The change comes in response to growing concerns from drivers, co-drivers and team personnel about excessively long working days and fatigue, issues that were highlighted sharply during the 2025 season, particularly at Rally Portugal, where crews faced punishing schedules lasting over 15 hours. Beginning in 2026, every WRC event will be required to include clearly defined rest periods to ensure a safer and more sustainable working environment for everyone involved.
Under the new rules, the total amount of rest time throughout a rally must be at least equal to the total competition time, with the exception of the opening day. Each day of the rally must include at least 10 hours of mandatory rest, and on one of the event’s days, this rest period must increase to a minimum of 12 hours. These requirements apply not only to drivers and co-drivers, but also to mechanics, engineers, officials and volunteers, aiming to protect the wellbeing of all personnel who contribute to running a WRC event. The FIA hopes that these changes will reduce fatigue-related risks and bring greater consistency across the championship’s diverse rallies.
The 2026 season will also see several complementary adjustments to the sporting regulations. Engine changes during an event will be allowed for Rally1 cars not scoring manufacturer points, but with significant penalties: a 60-minute time addition and zero championship points for that rally. Midday service time will be shortened from 40 to 30 minutes, while additional clarifications will be introduced on how chicanes must be built, used and penalized. Taken together, these updates reflect the FIA’s effort to refine rally management, increase safety margins and modernize the sport’s operational framework.
Overall, the introduction of mandatory rest hours marks a meaningful step toward improving the welfare of crews and staff in the WRC. As the championship moves into a transitional phase ahead of its future technical and sporting overhaul, the 2026 season is expected to offer a more balanced rhythm — one that safeguards the people at the heart of rallying while maintaining the intensity and challenge that define the sport.
Photo Credits: Toyota
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