Croatia has solidified its place on the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) map with a three-year agreement that extends its involvement in elite motorsport through 2027. This landmark deal, announced by WRC Promoter GmbH, also includes hosting a round of the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) in 2025, showcasing Croatia’s growing prominence as a hub for world-class rallying.
The news was revealed by Simon Larkin, Senior Director of Events for WRC Promoter GmbH, alongside Daniel Šaškin, President of the Croatia Rally Organising Committee. The announcement was supported by key figures, including Croatia’s Ministry of Sports State Secretary Josip Pavić and Croatian Automobile and Karting Federation President Robert Markt.
A proven classic in the WRC calendar
Since its WRC debut in 2021, the Croatia Rally has become an iconic event, known for its unforgiving asphalt stages that test the skills and mettle of the world’s top drivers. Its reputation as a premier Tarmac rally has grown rapidly, earning acclaim from teams, fans, and organizers alike.
“When Croatia Rally joined the WRC in 2021, we knew it would become an instant classic, and it hasn’t disappointed in each of the last four editions,” stated Simon Larkin. “We are delighted to continue this adventure for the next three years across both our championships. It will definitely add a new sporting challenge to the ERC, and we think it will appeal to not just our regular ERC competitors, but likely some WRC teams as well.
“We’d like to thank the Croatian Government at all levels – led by Sports Minister Tonči Glavina – as well as Daniel Šaškin, the President of the Organising Committee, for their unwavering support of this project,” he added.
The event’s ongoing success and its inclusion in the 2026 and 2027 WRC calendars underline its pivotal role in the future of the championship, ensuring that the WRC remains as dynamic and diverse as ever.
Croatia takes on the ERC in 2025
As Croatia shifts gears to host an ERC round in 2025, it leverages the expertise gained from organizing four successful WRC editions. The Croatia Rally has been lauded for its exceptional sporting, promotional, and entertainment value, a standard it aims to replicate and elevate in the European series.
Daniel Šaškin shared his gratitude and vision for the event’s future: “With the support of the Croatian government and our partners, Croatia will host the ERC next year and welcome the WRC back in subsequent years. I also thank WRC Promoter for recognising the quality of our organisation and choosing to continue hosting these motorsport competitions in Croatia. Through our experience and successful organisation, we continue to position Croatia as a motorsport hub.”
Motorsport and beyond: Economic and tourism impacts
The Croatian government’s support of the WRC and ERC underscores the country’s commitment to the dual goals of advancing motorsport and driving economic growth. Hosting these marquee events not only cements Croatia’s status as a top-tier rally destination but also significantly benefits local communities and tourism.
“This agreement and these events are crucial for Croatian motorsports and have lasting benefits for the economy and Croatia’s reputation as a premier sports destination,” remarked Robert Markt.
Josip Pavić, State Secretary at the Ministry of Sports and a former athlete, added: “As a former athlete, I am extremely proud to be part of a government that recognises and supports sports, including major events like the WRC Croatia Rally. This is indeed a major event, not only due to its significance for motorsports in Croatia but also due to its economic impact on the host destinations. WRC Croatia Rally brilliantly combines sport and tourism to the satisfaction of all stakeholders.”
The road ahead
Croatia’s extension with the WRC Promoter reflects its unwavering commitment to the sport and the broader motorsport ecosystem. As the country gears up to welcome the ERC in 2025 and return to the WRC in 2026 and 2027, fans, teams, and stakeholders can look forward to more thrilling stages, stunning landscapes, and world-class organisation. The rallying world will be watching as Croatia continues to shine on the global motorsport stage.