In excess of 40 ASNs around the world have already committed to FIA Rally Star and more are finalising plans for their selection events in the near future. The continued COVID-19 pandemic has, however, complicated strategies for some of those countries.

With travel and mass gathering restrictions still in place, the priority from the FIA is to ensure all FIA Rally Star selection events – for drivers aged between 17 and 26 – are conducted in safe and inclusive conditions.

FIA Rally Director Yves Matton said: “This is such an incredible opportunity for drivers around the world, we want to make sure we give as many of them the chance to join us in the selection events as possible. At the same time, we are all aware of coronavirus and the limitations the pandemic continues to place on the logistics of working and travelling both nationally and internationally. We know it’s very complicated for some of the ASNs to plan and run their events in the coming months, so extending the deadlines will widen the window for those countries to plan and run events safely.”

Beyond the national selection events, logistics for the Continental Finals are also being reviewed. With certain borders remaining closed to international travel, the decision has been taken to move them back into early 2022.

Europe will host the first Continental Final, with its event now scheduled for January 28-30 in Estering Buxtehude (Germany). Dates for the other Continental Finals are under discussion, but South Africa and Peru have been confirmed as hosting the African and South American Finals respectively.

Georgia has already delivered the first five drivers from its national selection event to that European Continental Final and #RallyatHome Challenge continues, with the fourth event starting from April 10.

More information on FIARallyStar.com