"...For once, co-drivers will get the respect they deserve."

MUNICH—The World Rally Championship (WRC) has announced a groundbreaking change in the rally racing world: the introduction of dual steering wheels in rally cars. The unexpected twist? This innovation is aimed at making co-drivers more useful, for once. 

For years, co-drivers have been a part of rally racing, providing navigational instructions to drivers hurtling through challenging terrains. However, their role has often been overestimated or, at times, downright comical, with heated discussions over intercoms becoming a common sight.

WRC spokesperson Sarah Michaels explained the motivation behind the dual steering wheel concept, saying, "We've witnessed countless debates between drivers and co-drivers over the years. Some have even dubbed it 'car karaoke' where the co-driver's backseat driving becomes a running commentary. So, we thought, why not let them have a taste of the action?" The new system enables the co-driver to assume control of the secondary steering wheel, allowing them to influence the car's direction. This means that, for the first time in rally racing history, both driver and co-driver have equal authority over the vehicle's trajectory.

Co-driver Ben Johnson expressed his enthusiasm for the change, stating, "It's a game-changer. Now, I can stop these idiots from putting me into a tree. Half the time they aren't listening to my instructions anyway. For once, co-drivers will get the respect they deserve." While some skeptics have questioned the practicality and potential for disagreements, the WRC believes that this innovation will lead to an exciting era of rally racing. The dual functional steering wheels promise to foster greater conflict between drivers and co-drivers which could potentially lead to a Netflix show like Formula 1.