New Compact Sprint Format to Debut in Sardinia, Paving the Way for Future Championship Calendars
As the WRC and FIA strive to introduce more varied event formats, this weekend’s Sardinia rally will trial a new compact sprint format, marking a significant departure from the traditional four-day events. This innovative approach is part of the FIA’s vision for the future of rallying, announced in February.
The Sardinia event, which begins on Friday, will feature a condensed 16-stage, 266.12km route, a significant reduction from last year’s 19-stage, 320.88km itinerary. This experimental format aims to provide a more concentrated event experience, which could become an option for other organisers in the near future, according to the new FIA regulations being introduced.
“Compared to the past, the race has a more compact format, it is an experiment that we have adopted upon the request of the FIA and the WRC Promoter on the basis of an exemption that Sardinia has obtained, to run and test a more concentrated event format.” – Tiziano Siviero, course designer and former co-driver to 1988-89 world rally champion Miki Biasion
The new format will see the rally begin with a shakedown on Friday morning, followed by a competitive leg in the afternoon. Saturday’s action will feature eight stages, with a slightly different format, including a 25-minute regroup and a 15-minute tyre fitting zone. Sunday’s leg remains largely unchanged, with four stages scheduled.
Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala believes the new format will still provide a challenging experience, despite the shorter distance:
“It’s going to be interesting to see the new more compact format in action in Sardinia: it will be a shorter event but not an easier rally, with long days and still quite many kilometres, and I think it could be even more exciting.”
M-Sport team principal Richard Millener is also enthusiastic about the new format, stating:
“I’m looking forward to Sardinia and experiencing this new event format in real-time, we have a very compact but action-packed schedule and I’m excited to see how it pans out.”
Driver Adrien Fourmaux has likened the event to a “sprint rally” and believes competition will be “very” high:
“Sardinia is one of the rallies I have the most experience; we know it’s a rough event, a bit smaller in mileage than previous years, but we know the competition will be very high.”
With its compact format and reduced distance, the Sardinia rally is set to provide a thrilling experience for drivers, teams, and fans alike. As the WRC and FIA continue to explore new event formats, this weekend’s trial could pave the way for future championship calendars that offer a fresh and exciting take on the traditional rally experience.
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