WRC: Argentina targets 2028 return via Córdoba candidate rally

Rally Argentina has a path back into the World Rally Championship (WRC): on 12 November 2026 the FIA confirmed that a candidate rally will take place in Córdoba in March 2027. It is the first step towards a return to the world calendar from 2028, for the first time since 2019.

A candidate rally in March 2027

The test event will run over three days as a round of the FIA CODASUR Rally Championship. FIA delegates will assess sporting operations, safety and medical arrangements, infrastructure and organisational capability, including the proposed stages and service park. The FIA is working with the Automóvil Club Argentino and the local organiser to identify what still needs to improve to meet WRC standards.

What still has to be approved

Nothing is guaranteed: a 2028 return depends on the outcome of the candidate rally. If it succeeds, the file goes to the FIA World Motor Sport Council. Once confirmed, the WRC Promoter can add the event to the calendar. According to Ouest-France Rallye-Sport, a multi-year agreement has been signed, although its length has not been given.

Plans for 2028

The FIA mentions a return of well-known stages, including El Cóndor. A new WRC Arena is planned around the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes sports complex in Córdoba, with the service park and spectator entertainment. Rally Argentina dates back to 1980 and is associated with its gravel stages and the fans who gather in the mountains around Córdoba.

A growing WRC

The announcement comes as the WRC plans 15 rounds across five continents in 2027, with three new events in the United States, the United Kingdom and Italy. The FIA and the WRC Promoter say they are excited about bringing the championship back to the stages and fans of Córdoba. For fans, the next date is clear: the March 2027 test rally, which will show whether Argentina regains its place in the championship.