Paraguay Emerges as Potential Host for 2025 WRC: Discussions with President Pena Highlight Exciting Prospects

Paraguay has emerged as a potential host for the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2025, as the championship looks to expand its calendar to 14 rounds, including two events in the South America region. Currently, the WRC has an existing deal with Chile, which is set to expire at the end of this year, with discussions underway for a possible renewal.

Aside from Paraguay, the WRC has also received interest from other South American nations like Argentina. The preference is to select two countries from the three bids to feature on next year’s schedule.

Recently, Simon Larkin, the WRC’s event director, met with Paraguay’s president Santiago Pena to discuss the country’s bid to host a WRC event. President Pena expressed enthusiasm about the potential to host important world-class sporting events like the WRC, highlighting Paraguay’s thriving national championship and the presence of around 30 Rally2 cars in the country.

Larkin confirmed that Paraguay is among the options being considered for next year’s calendar, emphasizing the importance of having two events in South America in the coming years. Discussions with Argentina are ongoing, but without contracts in place, the WRC is exploring all possible options.

Rallying holds significant prominence in Paraguay, evidenced by the interest of President Pena in hosting a pinnacle event. The WRC would require a test event in Paraguay as part of the preparation process, but contingency plans within the national championship are in place for this purpose.

Looking ahead, the 2025 WRC calendar is expected to undergo changes, including a return to Spain with an asphalt round in the Canary Islands. Additionally, a round in Saudi Arabia and a potential event in Ireland are being considered, pending government decisions and funding.

Larkin remains optimistic about Ireland’s bid, with positive signs from Motorsport Ireland, although a final decision from the government is awaited. Overall, discussions and negotiations are ongoing, with plans to present the options to the WRC board for a final decision.