Project Rally One has kicked off its testing phase for the all-new car designed for the 2027 World Rally Championship (WRC), with the aim of debuting in the upcoming season. This initiative is led by a team of experienced motorsport professionals, including Lionel Hansen, a seasoned engineer, and Yves Matton, a former FIA rally director and Citroen WRC team principal. The project was announced in December of the previous year, with plans to design, build, and homologate a WRC27-specification vehicle.
The formation of Project Rally One is particularly notable as it represents one of the two new tuner operations committed to the revised WRC technical regulations, which now permit tuners to operate as constructors. This change opens the door for innovative teams to enter the championship, enhancing competition and diversity within the sport.
In June, Project Rally One unveiled a render of its upcoming car, signaling its readiness to begin testing. Recently, French media outlet L’Equipe reported that the team successfully completed its initial rollout on a circuit in Germany, logging approximately 300 kilometers over three days of testing. Hansen confirmed the successful run, stating, "The car was subjected to significant stress on the kerbs and at high speeds, and we covered approximately 300 kilometers without encountering any problems." This positive feedback is a promising sign for the team's development efforts.
The vehicle is equipped with a 1.6-liter Volkswagen Group engine, which has a proven track record, having powered successful models such as the Skoda Fabia and Volkswagen Polo Rally2. Among the drivers testing the car was former factory WRC driver Stephane Lefebvre, who contributed valuable experience to the testing process.
Looking ahead, Project Rally One aims to field two cars for at least half of the 2027 season, with plans to participate in the prestigious Monte Carlo Rally as a starting point. Hansen expressed optimism about the team's progress, stating, "We’re progressing faster than expected and will be conducting a series of tests, on asphalt in September and then on gravel in October, a month ahead of the initial schedule." This proactive approach demonstrates the team's commitment to ensuring their vehicle is competitive from the outset of the season.
In parallel, fellow tuner RMC Motorsport has also announced its intentions to debut in the WRC at the Croatia rally next year, which is expected to take place in April. RMC Motorsport is currently working towards meeting its development milestones, with plans to participate in subsequent rallies across Spain, Portugal, and potentially South America later in the season. The team emphasizes the importance of arriving at their first rally with a well-developed and reliable car.
While RMC Motorsport has yet to finalize its driver lineup, discussions are ongoing with both established and emerging talents in the sport. The team aims to create opportunities for drivers with strong connections to Spain, indicating a focus on developing local talent alongside experienced competitors.
As the 2027 WRC season approaches, the emergence of new constructors like Project Rally One and RMC Motorsport highlights a dynamic shift in the championship landscape, promising exciting developments for fans and competitors alike.
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