WEC set for another decade with FIA/ACO contract extension

The FIA, and Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) have confirmed a new deal to secure the future of the FIA World Endurance Championship through to the end of the 2037 season.

The landmark extension, according to the news release, “will ensure a common ambition to expand the partnership and drive its commercial success.” It will run from the end of 2027, when the current agreement expires, to the end of 2037.

This news comes after significant media speculation emerged earlier this month that the championship's future was uncertain, following a breakdown in the relationship between the two bodies. However, the signing of the new deal resolves such concerns about the championship and its relationship with the ACO's crown jewel, the Le Mans 24 Hours.

Under the extended partnership agreement, all regulatory processes will be overseen by FIA Working Groups, the FIA Endurance Commission, and will require the final approval of the FIA World Motor Sport Council. The homologation process has also been streamlined, with the FIA and ACO overseeing the homologation of all cars competing in the Hypercar class.

The renewed partnership will also "deliver significantly increased branding for the FIA. This includes enhanced branding prominently displayed across key areas including parc fermé, the podium and the safety cars, as well as across broadcast coverage."

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, described the deal as a "vital step forward for racing."

“This is a deal built for the future, a deal of the century, one that strengthens the collaboration between the FIA and ACO, a relationship that dates back over 120 years, and sets the championship up for a decade of record growth that will deliver real benefits to fans, drivers, teams and manufacturers," he said. “It has been an honor to play a part in the collaboration that has helped usher in this golden age of endurance racing. I look forward to continuing our work alongside President Pierre Fillon and his team as we build on this momentum and shape an even stronger future.”

Fillon, resident of the ACO, said: “We are delighted to see the agreement between the FIA and the ACO extended, reinforcing the strong and long-standing relationship that has been at the heart of the FIA World Endurance Championship since its creation in 2012. This partnership has been built on trust, shared ambition, and a common commitment to the development of endurance racing.

“Together, the FIA and the ACO have created a solid foundation for the continued success and international growth of the championship, and we look forward to writing the next chapter of this remarkable collaboration. Finally, I would like to thank FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem for the great relationship we have built.”

Alberto Villarreal, general manager at the FIA, commented: “The FIA World Endurance Championship is stronger and more popular than it has ever been before, with a growing and evolving fan base, and an impressive roster of top-tier global auto-manufacturers.

“The agreement announced today underlines the investment in the championship from both the FIA and the ACO, and our commitment to continue bringing the sport to new audiences. It is a pivotal moment in the history of FIA WEC, and provides the foundation and stability needed for the championship’s ongoing success.”

Frédéric Lequien, CEO of Le Mans Endurance Management, the promoter for the FIA World Endurance Championship, said: “This agreement comes at an exciting time for the FIA World Endurance Championship. The championship is experiencing exceptional momentum, with growing engagement from manufacturers, teams, partners, media, and fans around the world.

"The extension provides a strong framework to build on this growth, further strengthen the global appeal of FIA WEC and continue to deliver a world-class championship at the forefront of endurance racing. We are looking forward to an ambitious and exciting future for FIA WEC.”