Rally Australia limits entries

In announcing the change, Rally Australia Clerk of Course Garry Connelly said that the realities of the modern world championship meant that entry numbers had to come down.

"There is enormous pressure on resources because of the success of the championship in attracting major teams," he said.

"These teams, be they international manufacturer teams, World Cup competitors or leading Australian entries, require more space in Service Parks, as well as more infrastructure and event administration.

"Also, with a greater number of more powerful four-wheel drive cars, road damage in reconnaissance and the event itself, is now a significant factor."

Part of the reason for the change was related to television rights for the World Rally Championship changing hands, being picked up by David Richards earlier this year.

"The competition will be more professional, and more exciting from the point of view of spectators and television viewers," Mr Connelly said.

"It will also be easier to televise, it'll be a more compact competition for spectators, and greater exposure for manufacturers."

"I envisage that within 2 years, all events in the championship will be down to 60 entries," he said.

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Rally Australia limits entries

Australia's round of this year's FIA World Rally Championship has restricted the entry to 80 cars