– The FIA, the world governing body for motorsport, has announced a long-term agreement regarding the commercial rights to the World Rally Championship (WRC) as well as the European Rally Championship (ERC).
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This followed the takeover of WRC Promoter GmbH by the French automotive technology platform Cosmobilis and the financial investor Park Square Capital. Until now, the Munich-based WRC Promoter GmbH was a joint venture between Red Bull and the investment company KW25.
The governing body speaks of a groundbreaking agreement for the two championships. The deal foresees substantial investments aimed at strengthening the FIA’s motorsport portfolio in the long term. In addition to the commercial development of the championships, the federation intends to retain sporting and regulatory authority.
“This is a groundbreaking contract for rallying, and I am proud to announce this step and an unprecedented level of investment,” FIA President Mohammed bin Sulayem is quoted in a press release from the federation. “It not only brings tangible benefits for fans, participants, and our member clubs worldwide, but also demonstrates confidence in the future of our sport amid growing global popularity.”
Together with the FIA, the new owners aim to expand global reach and fan engagement. Additionally, the FIA will enhance its brand presence at events as well as in worldwide broadcasts.
New regulations from 2027 and ex-F1 man Eric Boullier as CEO
The agreement comes at a time when the WRC is preparing for a comprehensive regulatory reform. The technical regulations valid from the 2027 season are intended to reduce costs at the top level while increasing safety and competitiveness. Additionally, the FIA is establishing a new growth fund (“FIA Growth Fund”) to support projects for the development of rallying at all levels – from grassroots to the world championship.
The new rights holders Cosmobilis and Park Square Capital want to make the series more accessible through stronger visual presentation, expanded rights allocation, and new multi-platform content.
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The operational management of the promoter is taken over by the newly appointed CEO Eric Boullier. The Frenchman is best known from Formula 1, where he was team principal of Renault and later race director of McLaren. Afterwards, he worked as a consultant for the Formula 1 Grand Prix of France.
“I approach this task with great enthusiasm, determination, but also with respect and a strong sense of responsibility to make these championships even more attractive,” said Boullier.
“Together with the FIA and our partners, we want to make every event a spectacle for fans worldwide. The goal is clear: to establish WRC and ERC as global top brands and generate sustainable growth – in line with current technological and ecological challenges.”
The new agreement was largely orchestrated by Malcolm Wilson. The deputy FIA sporting president is, as a longtime head of M-Sport, connected in the rally scene like few others.
“From the beginning, our focus was on finding a partner who recognizes the huge potential of the WRC while also understanding its character, history, and responsibility for its future,” said Wilson. “Cosmobilis and Park Square Capital share this ambition. With the new WRC27 regulations on the horizon and the new FIA Growth Fund, there is a real opportunity to strengthen the series and grow the global audience.”
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