According to media reports, FIA President Muhammed Ben Sulayem has hinted that Subaru could make a return to the World Rally Championship (WRC) in the future.<\/p>\n
The FIA President stated that Subaru’s name came up during his meeting with former Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda. Ben Sulayem mentioned that Toyota, which owns a stake in Subaru, could provide them with an engine, eliminating a major roadblock for Subaru to re-enter the series.<\/p>\n
Ben Sulayem, stated, “It\u2019s not a secret I had a good meeting with Mr Akio Toyoda, and I asked him what we can do [about enticing more manufacturers into the WRC] and I listened to someone who is passionate. And he mentioned Subaru.” He further added, “They own a percentage of Subaru and they are going to support an initiative of Subaru entering. And I feel someone like him, when he speaks, he speaks with confidence.”<\/p>\n
Subaru left the World Rally Championship in 2008, citing a financial downturn, ultimately shutting down its signature racing program. During its time in rallying, Subaru won three WRC driver’s championships and three manufacturer titles with the Prodrive-rn Subaru World Rally Team.<\/p>\n
Having said that, the news isn’t a confirmation of the brand’s return, but rather just the first step. Ben Sulayem didn’t provide any timeline for Subaru’s return.<\/p>\n