FIA opens up WRC to tyre competition

Following a fax vote by the members of the World Motor Sport Council, the sporting regulations for tyres in the 2011 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) have been approved to allow any tyre manufacturer to supply tyres. This reflects a desire to have greater association with road relevant technologies, environmental sustainability in motor sport, while maintaining cost control. Additionally, it will provide greater freedom for amateur competitors in the WRC.

For 2011, a tyre manufacturer must register its intent to supply tyres to entrants competing in WRC events. On or before 15 September 2010, the FIA will publish a list of nominated tyre companies. All entrants in 4WD cars must use the tyres produced by these companies, except for non-priority entrants driving 4WD Group N and 2WD cars.

New regulations have been adopted to respect parity between teams and avoid any increase in cost. Tyres will be bar coded and allocated to a particular driver under a random selection system controlled by the FIA. The maximum price of tyres is fixed by the regulations and the number of test days prior to the start of the season has been restricted. While the quantity of permitted tyres per event remains restricted and unchanged for 2011, in 2012 and 2013 quantities will be reduced by 15-20% each year.

Full details plus information on further amendments to the 2011 Sporting Regulations will be available shortly.