WRC Rally Argentina set for 2028 return

Rally Argentina, one of the FIA World Rally Championship’s most iconic events is set to return in 2028 following a landmark multi-year agreement with the government of Córdoba, Argentina.

The deal, reached with Córdoba Governor Martín Llaryora and his administration, paves the way for Rally Argentina to rejoin the WRC for the first time since 2019 (pictured above), marking the beginning of a new chapter for an event renowned for its spectacular gravel stages and extraordinary fan atmosphere.

First held in 1980, Rally Argentina became one of the championship’s most celebrated fixtures, attracting huge crowds to the mountains surrounding Córdoba. Its demanding roads, dramatic river crossings and unforgettable stages, including the legendary El Cóndor, helped establish the event as a favorite among competitors and fans alike.

The partnership provides a long-term foundation for the WRC's return to Córdoba, Argentina's second-largest city, with preparations already taking shape ahead of the planned 2028 comeback.

An important milestone will come in the first quarter of 2027, when a Candidate Rally is scheduled to take place as a round of the FIA CODASUR Rally Championship. Observed by FIA officials, the event will provide an opportunity to evaluate sporting operations, infrastructure and safety arrangements as preparations progress towards world championship standards.

Plans for 2028 also include establishing the WRC Arena within the sporting precinct surrounding Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba. Combining the traditional service park with a dedicated fan experience, the venue will provide a central hub for teams, partners and spectators throughout the rally.

Meanwhile, work is underway on a route that could see the return of some of Rally Argentina’s most recognizable stages, including El Cóndor, which became synonymous with the event during its previous spell on the WRC calendar.

“Argentina has always held a special place in the history of the WRC,” Éric Boullier, CEO of WRC Promoter, said. “Few events can match the passion of the fans in Córdoba or the atmosphere surrounding its legendary stages, and bringing the championship back is something we are incredibly excited about.

"This multi-year commitment is about more than simply returning to a familiar destination. It is about building a sustainable, long-term future for Rally Argentina and reconnecting the WRC with a country where rallying means so much to so many people.

"I would like to thank Governor Martín Llaryora, his government and the Automóvil Club Argentino for their commitment to making this return possible. We look forward to working together to create an event that honours Argentina's remarkable rallying heritage while embracing the future of the WRC."

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, said: “Argentina is a country with motorsport in its blood, passionate fans and remarkable terrain. It has an incredible rallying heritage, and I have great personal memories of competing in Córdoba. When I visited Argentina earlier this year, I repeated my commitment to bringing world-class competition back to the country and I am proud to announce the first step to achieving that vision.

“Following the historic ‘Deal of the Century’ and our partnership with the new WRC Promoter, the championship is entering a new era with increased investment and a clear vision to drive continued growth worldwide. Securing a return to Argentina will not only deliver great excitement for fans but it will build on the global momentum of our sport. I wish the organizing team every success as preparations get underway.”