# Sebastien Loeb Tests Project Rally One Car Ahead of WRC Debut

New constructor submits homologation papers for 2027 season opener in Monte Carlo.

- **Source:** [Autosport](https://www.autosport.com)
- **Published:** 2026-11-10
- **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports)
- **Original article:** <https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/loeb-tests-again-as-project-rally-one-submits-wrc-homologation-papers/10873615/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=RSS-ALL&utm_term=News&utm_content=uk>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/aa6a390d-dcf4-42e8-b68e-88cb1f53280e

## Loeb Returns for Testing

Nine-time world rally champion Sebastien Loeb has completed his second test session for the new constructor Project Rally One. Working alongside regular test driver Stephane Lefebvre, Loeb evaluated the 2027 car on asphalt roads near Saint-Die-des-Vosges in France. This collaboration marks a significant step in the team's ongoing vehicle development process.

## Homologation Papers Submitted

Project Rally One has officially submitted its required homologation documentation to the FIA before the designated deadline. This critical administrative milestone ensures the team remains on track for its planned participation in the 2027 World Rally Championship. The submission confirms the vehicle meets the necessary regulatory standards for competitive rally racing.

## Engine and Transmission Upgrades

The latest test session focused on evaluating substantial mechanical evolutions introduced to the car. Engineers implemented a new engine concept based on a VAG Group unit, complemented by significant upgrades to the transmission system. Both Loeb and Lefebvre provided positive feedback regarding these technical improvements during the two-day tarmac testing period.

## Extensive Development Driver Pool

Throughout the development phase, Project Rally One has utilized a diverse group of eight drivers to refine the car's performance. This roster includes experienced former factory WRC drivers like Freddy Loix and Bruno Thiry. Recently, European rally champion Teemu Suninen also contributed by leading the development efforts on gravel surfaces last month.

## Monte Carlo Debut Plans

The team intends to launch its WRC campaign with a two-car entry at the season-opening Rallye Monte-Carlo in 2027. While the homologation process is complete, the constructor has not yet finalized its official driver lineup for the event. Ongoing discussions with various potential partners are currently underway to secure the necessary support.

## Partial Championship Programme

Project Rally One is planning to contest a partial WRC programme rather than a full season schedule. This strategic approach allows the new team to focus resources on selected rounds during its debut year. The team's entry represents one of two new tuner squads expected to join the WRC field in 2027.

## Competitive Landscape Shifts

The entry of Project Rally One coincides with broader changes in the WRC landscape for 2027. Spain’s RMC Motorsport is also preparing to unveil its own challenger in the coming weeks, further expanding the field. These new constructor entries signal a period of growth and technical evolution within the world rally circuit.

## Future Outlook for Team

As the team transitions from development to competition, the focus shifts toward finalizing driver contracts and securing long-term partnerships. The successful submission of homologation papers provides a stable foundation for the team's entry. Observers will now monitor how the new VAG-based engine performs against established manufacturers during the upcoming Monte Carlo debut.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/loeb-tests-again-as-project-rally-one-submits-wrc-homologation-papers/10873615/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=RSS-ALL&utm_term=News&utm_content=uk — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._
