The newly formed Project Rally One team is preparing for its World Rally Championship debut in 2027 by launching an intensive testing program with Rally1 machinery involving up to eight drivers, according to technical director Lionel Hansens. The unnamed vehicle has completed approximately 1,000 kilometers on asphalt, with another 2,000 kilometers scheduled over the next six weeks across both asphalt and gravel surfaces.
Intensive Asphalt and Gravel Test Schedule
Testing is currently underway at a frequency of at least three days per week, according to Hansens. The asphalt test block is nearing completion, and the squad will transition to a five-week gravel program in France and southern Spain.
Several experienced French and Belgian rally drivers have already climbed behind the wheel. Stéphane Lefebvre participated in initial runs, alongside Bruno Thiry and Freddy Loix, who provides development feedback. Quentin Gilbert and French championship leader Raphaël Astier have also joined the test roster. Meanwhile, European Rally Championship winner Teemu Suninen has taken on a significant role to help develop the gravel specification, according to team disclosures.
Driver Strategy and Part-Time 2027 Entries
Project Rally One does not plan to contest a full championship during its 2027 debut season, opting instead to focus on selected asphalt rallies before expanding to gravel. Sports director Alain Penasse stated that the outfit aims to open doors for younger drivers who face high barriers to entering the WRC premier class under current Rally1 regulations.
Pro Tip: Unlike manufacturer-backed teams aiming for a drivers’ title, part-time entries allow flexible driver rotations per event. Hansens noted potential guest appearances for Dani Sordo in Spain, Andrea Crugnola in Italy, or Kris Meeke in Scotland.
While Toyota serves as a direct competitor using identical specifications, Hansens noted that securing driver commitments requires convincing talent to trust a brand-new setup. None of the test drivers have signed formal race contracts for 2027 yet. Stéphane Lefebvre, who last competed in the WRC top tier with Citroën in 2017, confirmed his ambition to secure a seat for events like Rallye Monte-Carlo.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Project Rally One debut in the WRC?
The team is scheduled to debut during the 2027 WRC season, starting with selected asphalt events.
Who is managing driver selections?
Driver choices are managed by sports director and driver manager Alain Penasse.
Will the team compete for the championship in 2027?
No, the team will not contest a full season and plans to rotate drivers for different rallies rather than pursue a full-time drivers’ title campaign.
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