Saudi Arabia WRC rally cancelled; Sardinia to decide 2026 champion
FIA called off the November 12–15 event over security concerns — Rally Sardinia (October 1–4) will be the season finale.
The World Rally Championship season will finish earlier than planned after the FIA announced the cancellation of the Rally of Saudi Arabia, which had been scheduled as the 14th and final round from 12 to 15 November.
The governing body cited the current security situation and continuing uncertainty in the Middle East as the reason for calling off the event. The FIA confirmed the cancelled round will not be replaced on the 2026 calendar.
Sardinia becomes season finale
With Saudi Arabia removed from the schedule, Rally Sardinia — set for 1 to 4 October — will now serve as the 13th and concluding round of the 2026 WRC season.
The cancellation directly affects the drivers' title fight. Elfyn Evans of Toyota leads the standings with 230 points, ahead of his teammate Sami Pajari on 213, while Oliver Solberg sits third with 209.
There are a maximum of 35 points available in Sardinia, meaning the 2026 world champion will be decided at the season-ending rally on the island.
Photo: FIA @fia (X)
