huge saving in the teams annual budget.”
 
Costs have also been reduced on the technical side. The 2006 season will bring in a ban on unnecessary and expensive technology such as sophisticated electronic differentials and engine water-injection systems.
 
Alongside lowering costs, Regis has been focused on gaining more media exposure for the championship. The radical change to the future WRC calendar has been made specifically to do that.
 
To implement this change the 2007 season will be made up of 8 or 9 rallies run from January to May. The 2008 season will be run over two calendar years, beginning in August 2007 and ending in May 2008.
 
The switch of race dates means rallying will not face as much competition in television schedules from Formula One racing, motorcycling or other major sporting events such as the Summer Olympics or football’s World Cup.
 
Regis said: “The change in the calendar coincides with our desire to up the media coverage of the championship. Our aim is to distance ourselves from the FIA Formula One World Championship, which finishes in October. Starting in 2007/2008, from August to May, WRC will be the most important world motor sport.”
 
In just under a year as President of the WRC Commission, Regis has breathed new life into the championship. But he admits there is still some way to go. The cost cutting measures are in place and future plans will focus on improving the media coverage and exposure.
 
One idea is to introduce a ‘Super Special Stage’ on the last day of the rally, for the leaders of the event. It is envisaged that at this stage the ultimate winner would be decided. The rationale behind this move is to create an exciting high stakes end to the rally, which could be broadcast live on television. It could also attract a large number of spectators, gathered together in a stadium venue.
 
However, the format of this stage is still to be decided. As usual, a huge amount of research and consultation will be undertaken before any major changes are proposed.
 
Such rules changes are able to be developed and discussed through a strengthened collaboration between the teams and the FIA. The manufacturers are happy with the work Regis has done so far and are generally confident about the progress being made. It all bodes well for the future of the sport.
 
As Regis said: “The positive reactions we have had following the publication of these new measures, lead me to believe that we have chosen right road for the championship.”