World Rally Championship returns to the UK in 2027

WRC Rally Scotland is a new gravel-based event set across Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Moray, with stages designed to make full use of the region's dramatic landscapes and world-class forest roads. The event is expected to provide a spectacular sporting challenge for the WRC's leading drivers and manufacturers, while the region's strong infrastructure and transport links will offer a solid platform for teams, media and fans alike.

The agreement marks the end of an eight-year gap in the UK's WRC calendar, following the last running of Wales Rally GB in 2019. The initial deal covers a three-year period beginning in 2027, giving the north east a sustained opportunity to establish itself as one of the championship's premier destinations.

The scale of the opportunity is significant. The World Rally Championship reaches a global television audience of 1.3 billion people, and on average, each European rally generates €41 million in economic impact. Closer to home, a recent council report predicted the event could generate around 76,000 hotel room nights and inject up to £20 million a year into the city economy alone. Motorsport UK has also begun outlining opportunities for local businesses to get involved, from supply chain and services to hospitality and experiences.

For the north east, this is about more than motorsport. The arrival of a world-class international event of this scale is a clear signal of the region's growing reputation as a destination capable of hosting major global occasions — underpinned by strong infrastructure, outstanding natural landscapes, and a collaborative regional partnership bringing together organisations including VisitAberdeenshire, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, Aberdeenshire Council and Aberdeen City Council.

Businesses and individuals interested in getting involved can sign up at the Rally Scotland website to stay up to date with opportunities linked to the event.

Opportunity North East Limited and VisitAberdeenshire work with tourism businesses to turn the region's unique assets into experiences, connect businesses with customers, promote sustainable growth, invest in skills and leadership, and encourage the sector to collaborate to produce more significant impacts.