Eurosport will become the new promoter of the FIA European Rally Championship, in a deal that spells the end of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge.
The announcement, made following a World Motor Sport Council meeting, brings to end speculation regarding the future of the ERC and Eurosport's own IRC. The latter will cease at the end of this current season after a six-year run.
The WMSC communication stated: "As part of the FIA's commitment to strengthen the regional rally championships and implement a global strategy for the sport, the WMSC approved the principle of the appointment of Eurosport Events Limited as the promoter of the FIA European Rally Championship from 2013 for a period of 10 years. Eurosport Events' commitment will ensure the series is televised and promoted in all mediums."
A Eurosport statement added: "The agreement will mean the Intercontinental Rally Challenge, which Eurosport Events created and has promoted since its inception in 2007, will not run next year in its current format across Europe.
"Eurosport Events is delighted to have secured this exciting opportunity and will announce full details, including the provisional calendar for 2013, at a later stage."