FIA, ACO deny reports of friction around WEC's future

The FIA and ACO have responded to media reports from Thursday that suggested friction between the two bodies regarding the future of the FIA World Endurance Championship, and claimed that no contract was in place between the two for the coming 2027 season.

An article originating in German publication Auto Motor und Sport but widely copied elsewhere alleged difficulties in negotiations between the FIA and ACO, and placed FIA President Mohammed ben Sulayem and ACO President Pierre Fillon at the heart of the reported issues

Both bodies have denied the allegations and confirmed that there is indeed a contract in place for the 2027 FIA WEC.

RACER approached the FIA WEC and was provided with a statement that confirmed the 2027 contract and went on to confirm too that contractual negotiations were underway “regarding the future of the FIA WEC beyond 2027”, and that: 

“These discussions are progressing as planned, in a constructive spirit and with a shared commitment to preparing the future of the World Championship. 

“Both organizations remain fully committed to their collaboration and are working together to ensure the continued development and long-term success of the FIA WEC.”

The stories come at a time of heightened uncertainty across the automotive industry, although with the FIA WEC is bucking that trend with at least nine OEMs confirmed for the 2027 World Championship in the premier Hypercar class, and discussions progressing for the next phase of top-class sportscar regulations that are due to come into force in 2030.