Toyota Gazoo Racing and Hyundai have written to the FIA to say they will not travel to Saudi Arabia for this year’s World Rally Championship (WRC) finale, citing corporate travel restrictions and evolving safety assessments for the Middle East.
Manufacturers cite company travel policy
In a joint approach to motorsport’s governing body, the two leading manufacturers made clear they were unwilling to take the risk of attending the event in Saudi Arabia at this time. Toyota’s statement noted that the Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) policy currently prohibits any travel to the Middle East, and the company and team are updated weekly by headquarters on any changes to that policy.
"The Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team is wholly owned by Toyota Motor Corporation and all its members must comply with TMC regulations. TMC policy currently prohibits any travel to the Middle East. Our company and our team are informed weekly by headquarters of any changes to this policy,"
Hyundai confirmed a similar position in comments to DirtFish, saying there are certain restrictions on business travel to the Middle East that are being monitored daily and are constantly evolving.
Broader motorsport disruption in the Gulf
The manufacturers’ announcement comes amid broader disruption to international motorsport events planned for the Gulf region this year. Several high-profile changes and cancellations have already been made:
- The Bahrain Grand Prix was relocated to Sepang, Malaysia.
- The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was cancelled for the current season.
- World Endurance Championship (WEC) races originally scheduled in the region were replaced on the calendar by events in Barcelona and Monza.
Those prior moves underline the sensitivity around staging large international sporting events in the Gulf this year, and help explain why both Toyota and Hyundai opted for a combined, precautionary stance.
Implications for the WRC calendar
At the time of the manufacturers’ letter, the FIA had not issued an official decision on whether the WRC finale in Saudi Arabia would be cancelled. The refusal of Toyota and Hyundai to attend has, however, increased pressure on organisers to act. If the event is cancelled, it is not yet clear whether a suitable replacement can be found on the WRC calendar.
Both manufacturers are among the championship’s dominant forces; their absence would materially affect the competition and the spectacle for fans worldwide.
What to watch next
Key developments to follow in the coming days and weeks:
- Any formal announcement from the FIA regarding the status of the WRC finale in Saudi Arabia.
- Whether event organisers seek an alternative venue or date for the finale.
- Further corporate travel advisories from manufacturers with teams competing in the WRC and other series.
| Event | Action taken |
|---|---|
| Bahrain Grand Prix | Relocated to Sepang, Malaysia |
| Saudi Arabian Grand Prix | Cancelled for the season |
| WEC races in the region | Replaced by Barcelona and Monza |
For South African motorsport fans, the unfolding situation is a reminder of how geopolitics and corporate travel restrictions can ripple through the sporting calendar. Whether the WRC can find an alternative finale, or will be forced to conclude without its top manufacturers present, remains a question for the FIA and the championship promoter.
The next official word from the FIA is likely to determine whether the WRC will reshuffle its finale or proceed with a reduced field. Until then, teams, drivers and supporters will be watching for formal confirmation.
