World Rally to return to UK for first time since 2019

The World Rally Championship will return to the UK in 2027 in Scotland. 

Since the Wales Rally GB was removed from the calendar after 2019 following a loss of funding from the Welsh government, the WRC has not been held in the UK. 

After several unsuccessful attempts to revive a UK WRC stage, rallying's top tier return to British shores has finally been confirmed.

Scotland has agreed a three-year deal to host WRC with a gravel-based rally in Aberdeen. Stages will take place in the surrounding regions of Aberdeenshire and Moray. 

“Since the FIA World Rally Championship last visited the UK in 2019, Motorsport UK and WRC Promoter have worked closely together to find the right pathway for its return. We have nothing but praise for the determination and hard work shown by Motorsport UK in bringing this project to life," said senior events director at WRC promoter Simon Larkin. 

“We’re delighted to be working alongside the Scottish Government and local authority partners to see this exciting initiative come to fruition - something that will benefit many, and especially the passionate rally fans across the UK.”

FIA deputy president for sport, Malcolm Wilson, said: “This is a huge announcement for the FIA World Rally Championship, it really demonstrates the positive direction we are now taking. The United Kingdom has incredible heritage and passion for our sport, and the return of a flagship world championship event in Scotland is the start of the next chapter in this long history. 

"As we enter a new era for the WRC in 2027 with new regulations, more accessible cars and more crews competing at the sharp end, it’s fantastic to see the appetite is there from organisers, governments and of course the fans to put together new WRC events. Alongside Motorsport UK, the WRC Promoter and the local organisers we are very much looking forward to making these plans a reality.”

Briton Elfyn Evans currently leads the WRC after the first three rounds of the 2026 season. 

Motorsport UK chairman David Richards added: “Rallying has always had a special place in the story of British motorsport and, for me personally, it has been a huge part of my life. I’ve had the privilege of experiencing the World Rally Championship from inside a rally car, and I know just how unique the atmosphere of a UK rally can be — the forests, the fans and the extraordinary community of volunteers and motor clubs who make these events possible.

“That’s why seeing the championship return to the UK is so meaningful. WRC Rally Scotland will bring the world’s best drivers back to British stages, but it will also be more than a rally. It’s an opportunity to showcase the passion of our rally community and demonstrate how motorsport can contribute to innovation, sustainability and inspiring the next generation to get involved in our sport."