WRC and ASI could ramp up partnership for '19

Moving the WRC launch from its previous slot on the Thursday morning of the season-opening Monte Carlo Rally to ASI proved a huge success, with champion Sebastien Ogier among those now eager for it to stay in Birmingham and take place on the Saturday or Sunday next year.

"It could be an idea to bring more people and do it on a day when the public and the families could come in as well," said Ogier.

"It could be tough for the media if we do this, but it's better for the fans."

Ogier's M-Sport team principal Malcolm Wilson agreed.

"Everything ran perfectly," said Wilson. "Definitely it's worth looking at moving the launch - we've all seen how many thousands of people come through the doors at the weekend.

"It would be nice to show those people our sport and our championship."

The ASI move was helped by the Monte not taking place until the final weekend of January - a week later than is often the case - this year.

WRC Promoter managing director Oliver Ciesla backed plans to enhance the relationship between the series and ASI, but said much would depend on the 2019 calendar.

"The opportunity to reach out to even more fans by moving to a public day would be very appealing, but we have to see how the date works," he said.

"If Monte Carlo hadn't moved back, it would have been a week away and this show would have been a different proposition.

"Let's see, but we would definitely like to be back in Birmingham."

ASI show director Kate Woodley strongly supported the idea of the WRC having a bigger presence at the 2019 event.

"For us, we'd like this to be just the beginning," she said.

"In response to the comments made and the demand from the public, we're looking to stage this very special launch show at the weekend.

"Like Oliver said, we have to wait for the calendar, but if it all works, we're ready to go to town in 12 months.

"Don't forget, we have the Live Action Arena as well - this could be a tailor-made show and the perfect opportunity to see the finest rally cars and crews doing what they do best."

Teams emphasised that separating the launch from the season-opener was positive for them.

"Normally we are doing this in Monte Carlo on the first day of the rally and this can be a stress for the drivers," said Toyota team principal Tommi Makinen.

"It's good to take away some of that stress."