Canadian drivers’ access to the World Rally Championship, or even the international series, has been barred for several decades. With the exception of a few personal and courageous initiatives such as that of Pat Richard in the Production WRC class in the early 2000s, few if any Canadian drivers have managed to make their mark on a regular basis and through interesting official teams in the discipline.

But the situation could change in the next few years as the FIA ​​​​(Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) will offer young Canadian rally drivers the opportunity to pursue their lifelong dream of a career in the world championship. This affects Canadians between the ages of 17 and 26 who can enroll in the revolutionary FIA Rally Star program.

The competition kicks off with four week-long virtual #RallyAtHome competition challenges: August 27-September 4, September 10-18, September 24-October 2, and finally October 8-16.

Registration details are available here and the sport regulations are here. These four challenges use the WRC 9 game on any of the following platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox X/S. A still unknown special will be sent for download. Competitors can complete the stage 100 times before completing their five time trials, the fastest of which will be their official time trial. A participant can register for the #RallyAtHome Challenges as often as they like.

The winners of the #RallyAtHome Challenges, along with other potential entrants, will take the next step towards reaching the Rally Star Continental Finals in Peru in December.

Success at the Peruvian Continental Finals will earn a place on the FIA ​​​​Rally Star training team in 2024. The winners take part in six practice rallies in a Ford Fiesta Rally3 and the best drivers get a place in the WRC Junior (photo above a car in this category at the last Rally Croatia). The FIA ​​​​Rally Star program represents the sport’s most comprehensive award for drivers from all over the world.

The best rider will be offered an extra spot to encourage greater participation. Leanne Junnila, Canadian Representative to the FIA ​​Women in Motorsport Commission, said: “I am delighted to introduce this initiative to all young women in motorsports in Canada. For his part, François Dumontier, President of the Sports Development Group, Canada’s national sports agency, concludes: “This program represents an unprecedented opportunity for young Canadian rally drivers”.