There is a buzz in European rally circles right now as Lancia has officially made its comeback in the FIA European Rally Championship after years away from the continental stage. This time around the effort is unmistakably Italian with three cars, three crews and a rally team all representing the brand in its traditional motorsport colours. The programme itself was unveiled to motorsport fans and brings together sporting heritage with a clear plan for growth and competition at high level events across Europe.

At the core of this return are the Ypsilon Rally cars that will take on the EFI ERC hills and gravel stages. The top level entry will be Lancia’s Rally2 HF Integrale with drivers Andrea Mabellini and Virginia Lenzi at the wheel. In the Junior class, two Rally4 HF cars have been entered and will be piloted by Francesco Dei Ceci with co-driver Danilo Fappani and by Davide Pesavento. What stands out about this lineup is the emphasis on homegrown talent and a team structure based entirely in Italy.

The collaboration with ACI and ACI Sport has been key in building this all Italian project and gives the Lancia team a strong foundation in the traditions that made the brand a legend in rallying. Organisers involved with the effort see rallying as a way to develop drivers and technology side by side. The initiative is about more than just competition. It is designed to nurture young talent and give them opportunities to shine on an international platform while carrying a badge that has deep motorsport roots.

For fans of rallying who remember Lancia’s historic string of victories and championship success, this marks a meaningful moment. The new era brings new cars and fresh faces but keeps the heart of Italian motorsport at its centre. With the season beginning in Spain in April followed by rounds across Scandinavia, Poland, the Czech Republic and Portugal, the 2026 FIA ERC calendar will be the stage for this comeback. It is a grand return that blends heritage, passion and competition with an unmistakable Italian spirit.

If you follow rally sport closely, this development is one to watch as Lancia once again challenges established teams and revives a legacy that has captivated fans for generations.