WRC announced a multi-year agreement with Argentina’s Córdoba provincial government on November 12 to support Rally Argentina’s planned return to the world championship in 2028. The event last appeared in the WRC in 2019, with a candidate rally scheduled for 2027 as the next preparation step.
The agreement was reached with Governor Martín Llaryora and his administration. Córdoba remains central to the project, which includes work on the route, infrastructure and spectator experience.
A candidate rally in the first quarter of 2027
The next specified milestone is a candidate rally in the first quarter of 2027. It is planned as a round of the FIA CODASUR Rally Championship, observed by FIA officials assessing sporting operations, infrastructure and safety arrangements.
That event will provide a practical test of preparations towards world championship standards. The announcement establishes a 2028 return target and a quarterly window for the candidate rally. Exact dates, the full route and further arrangements will be announced later.
A service and fan hub around the Kempes stadium
Plans for 2028 include a WRC Arena in the sporting precinct surrounding Córdoba’s Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes. The proposed venue would combine the traditional service park with a dedicated fan experience, creating a central hub for teams, partners and spectators.
Route work could bring back recognisable stages such as El Cóndor. The final stage list remains part of the developing plan. The event’s mountain gravel roads, river crossings and large crowds also make route and safety planning important parts of its preparation.
Reconnecting with a tradition dating to 1980
First held in 1980, Rally Argentina became known for its mountain stages around Córdoba and its spectator atmosphere. The promoter wants the multi-year partnership to provide a long-term foundation for its return.
WRC Promoter CEO Éric Boullier described Argentina and Córdoba’s fans as having a special place in the championship’s history. He said the partnership aimed to reconnect with that tradition and create a sustainable future. Llaryora called the 2027 candidate rally an important demonstration of readiness and highlighted the event’s significance for tourism and jobs.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem welcomed the progress towards a return as part of rallying’s global development.
