The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) have announced a significant agreement aimed at enhancing the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) for the next decade. This landmark deal, reported by Gulf Times, will extend their partnership from the end of 2027 to 2037, coinciding with a period of unprecedented growth for the championship.
The renewed agreement is designed to foster a shared ambition for commercial success and expansion within the FIA WEC. Regulatory processes will be managed by FIA Working Groups and the FIA Endurance Commission, with final approvals required from the FIA World Motor Sport Council.
As part of the deal, the homologation process for cars in the Hypercar class will be streamlined, ensuring that both the FIA and ACO oversee the homologation of all competing vehicles. This initiative aims to enhance the competitive landscape of the championship.
Additionally, the partnership will significantly increase FIA branding visibility across key areas, including the podium, parc fermé, and Safety Cars, as well as throughout broadcast coverage. This move is expected to further engage the championship’s expanding fanbase.
Since its inception in 2012, the FIA WEC has set a global standard for long-distance racing, with interest surging following the introduction of Hypercar regulations in 2021. The championship has seen an 8% increase in trackside audience in 2026, with a notable demographic shift; 44% of attendees are aged 34 or younger, and 40% are first-time visitors.
Currently, eight leading auto manufacturers compete in the Hypercar category, and with the addition of the LMGT3 class in 2024, the championship will feature 14 marques on the starting grid. Notably, automotive giants Ford and McLaren are set to join the Hypercar ranks in 2027.
This agreement also lays the groundwork for advancing hydrogen powertrains in competition, promoting a pathway towards more sustainable transport solutions. A unified technical framework for top-level endurance racing will be introduced by 2030, enhancing cost-efficiency for manufacturers and boosting participation in endurance racing globally.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed that this agreement is a crucial step for the future of the FIA WEC, emphasizing the strengthened collaboration between the FIA and ACO. Pierre Fillon, President of the ACO, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the long-standing relationship that has been pivotal to the championship’s success.
With the FIA WEC experiencing unprecedented interest, this new deal is expected to secure its future and mark a significant milestone in its history, setting the stage for continued growth and success over the next decade.
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