J-WRC may be replaced by new Scheme

The J-WRC could be replaced by Young Driver Academy as early as next year, according to maxrally.com.

The widely acknowledged stepping stone to the WRC has been hit with declining interest. The J-WRC has produced many modern-day greats, such as Sebastian Loeb, Sebastian Ogier, Dani Sordo and Gigi Galli, all of which went on to become established works drivers for teams such as Citroen and Mitsubishi, and the former of whom went on to claim six consecutive World Championship titles.

One cost cutting measure would be to nominate one company or manufacturer to supply one model of car to the series, much like A1 GP, except there would not be nations represented but teams. At this early stage four companies are understood to have put in invitations to tender. They are believed to be M-Sport (Ford Fiesta R2 or ST), Ralliart (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X or IX), Honda (Honda Civic Type R) and Mazda (car unknown).

It is also possible that the car choice may be left to the competitors, who are to lose out financially should the one-make option be given the green-light.

“It’s under discussion and if people make up their minds it could happen for next year. I’ve seen [two proposals] and they’re both very interesting. It’s possible we may make a decision but we’ve been talking about this since September last year and every time you go forward you go a step back. We just need to do some more work.” said President of the WRC Commission Morrie Chandler.