WRC: Running order change is approved

The World Rally Championship-leading driver must run first on the road on the first two days of every 2015 WRC round, the FIA has confirmed after a Wednesday afternoon vote.

There had been speculation in the service park that the move could be vetoed by the FIA World Motor Sport Council due to its unpopularity with some drivers, notably two-time world champion Sebastien Ogier, and following the rejection of more radical 2015 WRC proposals. But following an electronic vote of its members on Wednesday afternoon, the WMSC has ratified the change and it will come into play from the Monte Carlo Rally next January.

An FIA statement read: "The running order for FIA World Rally Championship events will be in championship order for Friday and Saturday.

"On Sunday, P1 and P2 crews will run in reverse classification order. P1 and P2 drivers who have retired will restart the subsequent day/s at the front of this group."

The decision will radically reduce the championship leader's chances of winning hot gravel rallies such as Mexico and Sardinia as they will be forced to sweep the stages clean, improving traction for those following, for the majority of the event. At present, the championship leader runs first on day one, before the reverse-rally-order system comes into play thereafter.

In addition to the running order clarification, the WMSC confirmed WRC rounds will continue to run at least 300 kilometres (186 miles) from Friday morning until Sunday lunchtime – although a ceremonial start and superspecial are permitted on Thursday night.

The FIA is also encouraging the use of longer stages within events.