French rally legend François Delecour is set to return to top-level historic competition in 2026, confirming a full-season campaign in the FIA European Historic Rally Championship (EHRC) Pre-2000 category with IKE Racing. The programme marks an exciting new chapter for both driver and team as they target front-running performances across the season.

Delecour will compete at the wheel of the iconic Peugeot 306 Maxi owned and prepared by IKE Racing, a model synonymous with his success during the 1990s. The entry is a direct result of the recent expansion of Appendix K regulations, allowing cars such as the Maxi to compete in the championship – a move that continues to broaden the appeal and competitiveness of the European Historic Rally Championships.

In preparation for the season, IKE Racing has undertaken an extensive development programme on the car, ensuring it is ready to perform at the highest level. A key new element for 2026 is a technical partnership with Michelin, with the 306 Maxi now equipped with Michelin tyres – a significant change that underlines the team’s ambition to maximise performance and consistency throughout the year.

“I’m very happy to take on this new challenge in the FIA European Historic Rally Championships,” said Delecour. “With the recent expansion of Appendix K regulations, it’s fantastic to see cars like the Peugeot 306 Maxi now eligible to compete, which makes this opportunity even more special.

“The Peugeot 306 Maxi is a car that is very special to me as I was an official Peugeot driver in the ’90s and became French champion with this car, which makes this return even more meaningful.

“What makes this car truly unique is not only its performance, but also its character and the engine sound, simply unforgettable. IKE team has done a fantastic job preparing the car, and I believe we have everything we need to be competitive. I’m not coming here just to enjoy the experience - I want to fight at the front.

“The FIA European Historic Rally Championships are very competitive, which makes this challenge even more exciting. I’m really looking forward to getting started and seeing what we can achieve together.”

Mathias Doutreleau, FIA Historic Championships & Committee Manager added: “It is fantastic to welcome a driver of François Delecour’s calibre back to the FIA European Historic Rally Championship. His presence, together with the inclusion of cars like the Peugeot 306 Maxi following the evolution of Appendix K, highlights the continued growth and relevance of the series. We look forward to seeing him and IKE Racing compete across the season.”

With a proven driver, a legendary car, and a strengthened technical package, Delecour and IKE Racing head into 2026 determined to mount a serious pre-2000 title challenge.

ENDS 

For media enquiries please contact FIA Road Sport Communications Manager, Sven Good Sgood@fia.com

The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) is the governing body for world motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations globally. It is a non-profit organisation committed to driving innovation and championing safety, sustainability and equality across motor sport and mobility. 

Founded in 1904, with offices in Paris, London and Geneva, the FIA brings together 245 Member Organisations across five continents, representing millions of road users, motor sport professionals and volunteers. It develops and enforces regulations for motor sport, including six FIA World Championships, to ensure worldwide competitions are safe and fair for all.