The world of rallying is set to vibrate with the long-awaited return of Lancia to WRC2, after decades of absence. It’s a bit like a rockstar who disappeared from the radar picking up their instrument and starting to play the greatest hits of yesteryear. In 2026, Lancia promises to make waves on the tracks, notably with talented drivers like Yohan Rossel and Nikolay Gryazin.
A significant entry into the championship
For the first time since the 1990s, Lancia will officially return to the World Rally Championship. This announcement has been met with enthusiasm from fans, who see it as a new era for the Italian brand. This ambitious project will be managed by PH Sport, with Didier Clément at the helm as Team Principal. One could say they are returning to the forefront with great aplomb.
The drivers: Rossel and Gryazin
The hopes rest on the shoulders of Yohan Rossel and Nikolay Gryazin. Rossel, with his experience in the Stellantis rally programs, already has an impressive track record, including a title in FIA WRC3 in 2021 and a runner-up finish in FIA WRC2 in 2025. Alongside him, Gryazin brings solid experience, having won the under-28 championship title in FIA ERC and the WRC2 Challenger World Championship. Together, they form a promising duo that is sure to attract attention in the upcoming races.
A symbolic return to Monte-Carlo
The season will kick off at the Rally Monte-Carlo, an emblematic event that will mark the rebirth of Lancia under the banner of Team Lancia Corse HF. Imagine the scene: fans waving blue flags alongside cars roaring on winding roads. It’s a return to the roots for one of the most decorated brands in rally history, which has already won 11 manufacturers’ championship titles and a record number of victories in Monte-Carlo.
A revival welcomed by the authorities
Marina Duñach, the head of rally categories at the FIA, expressed her enthusiasm for this announcement: “The confirmation of Lancia’s entry into WRC2 as a manufacturer-supported team is a positive step for the championship. It enhances the sporting interest of the competition and underscores the importance of Rally2 in the FIA rally pyramid.” One could say that expectations are high, and it is clear that Lancia intends to play a major role in this category.
A clear vision for the future
Roberta Zerbi, the CEO of Lancia, added: “Lancia’s return to the world of rallying represents an important milestone for our brand. Yohan and Nikolay bring complementary experience and a clear understanding of the modern requirements of rallying.” The words are strong, and one can sense a palpable determination at Lancia to approach this new season with resolve. This return is much more than just participation; it is a true declaration of intent.
As preparations for the 2026 season intensify, rally enthusiasts can expect an exciting spectacle. If you have always dreamed of seeing Lancia rise from the ashes like a blazing phoenix, then get ready: the Rally Monte-Carlo could very well be the stage for a grand return that will mark the annals of motorsport.
