The FIA and WRC Promoter have confirmed a change to the closing stages of the 2026 FIA World Rally Championship calendar. Rally Saudi Arabia will no longer be part of this year’s WRC season, with Rally Italia Sardegna set to become the season finale on 1–4 October.
Saudi Arabia was originally scheduled to host the final round of the season in November, but ongoing regional uncertainty and its impact on the logistical arrangements of the event have led to the decision not to run the WRC round this year.
The change means that the 2026 FIA World Rally Championship will comprise 13 rounds across four continents. Sardinia’s gravel roads will now provide the stage for the season finale, with the championship battle still wide open and just 17 points separating the leading contenders in the drivers’ standings.
Rally Saudi Arabia will still take place as planned on 12–15 November as part of the FIA Middle East Rally Championship. The FIA, WRC Promoter and the Saudi organisers will continue working together with the aim of bringing the WRC back to Saudi Arabia in 2027.
The calendar change remains subject to approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.
Rally Italia Sardegna takes place on 1–4 October 2026.
