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Rumored: Volkswagen Could Be Exiting World Rally Championship

Volkswagen has been a dominate force in the FIA's World Rally Championship since it entered back in 2013. In the four seasons it has competed, the brand has 39 wins, along with three consecutive championships for manufacturers, drivers, and co-drivers. But this domination could be ending.
Posted: October 31, 2016 - 10:57AM
Author: Will Maley

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Autosport has learned that Volkswagen's board will be holding a discussion as to the future of the brand's involvement in the WRC. Volkswagen team principal Sven Smeets declined to comment about what the future holds for the team.

The likely reason for Volkswagen pulling out of the WRC comes down the diesel emission scandal and the various cost-saving measures the company is beginning to employ.

As we reported last Wednesday, Audi announced that it would be leaving the World Endurance Championship at the end of this year and focus on the Formula E championship. Part of the decision came down to “the context of the current burdens on the brand” - i.e. the diesel emission scandal.

With Audi leaving the WEC and the possiblity of Volkswagen stepping away from the WRC, that could leave Porsche as the only brand competing in a international racing series - the World Endurance Championship.

Pic Credit: Volkswagen

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