A much telegraphed rule change will see the championship leader run first on the road on the opening two days of WRC events next year.
The move is a departure from the current system where the leader is only first on the road on day one before the order reverses for the following days.
An brief FIA statement said: “Next year’s running order will be in Championship order for Friday and Saturday, followed by reverse rally classification order on Sunday.
“P1 and P2 drivers who have retired will restart the subsequent day/s at the front of this group.
“Rallies will continue to be organised over two and half days, from Friday to Sunday, with a minimum of 300 kilometres of special stages.
“A ceremonial start or super special stage can be organised on Thursday.”
Rally organisers would also be encouraged to ensure their event had ‘unique qualities, new and longer stages to help create closer competition and fresh opportunities for the media.’
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