FIA Takes Direct Control of World Rallycross Championship After Promoter's Exit
The FIA has taken full control of the World Rallycross Championship (World RX) as both owner and operator, following the departure of previous promoter Rallycross Promoter GmbH after the 2024 season.
Racing drivers and team members posing
The governing body will manage the series "with immediate effect" with support from a service provider. This move comes after three months of exploring various options for the championship's future.
Kenneth Hansen, veteran World RX team owner, welcomes the change, noting that direct communication between teams and the FIA will streamline decision-making processes. He believes this transition could attract hesitant teams, especially with the 2027 regulations aligning more closely with World Rally Championship technical specifications.
Key developments include:
- Appointment of James Nixon as sporting manager for World RX and Extreme H
- Focus on securing free-to-air television coverage to grow audience
- Calendar announcement scheduled for March 14
- Cancellation of previously confirmed events in Trois-Rivières, Canada and Coventry, UK
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the organization's commitment to elevating the category by securing new global audiences and improving competition opportunities for drivers, teams, and partners.
The FIA is also developing a comprehensive progression ladder for rallycross, working with national sporting authorities to create clear pathways from entry-level events to the world championship. This initiative aims to strengthen grassroots participation and provide aspiring drivers with a clear route to professional competition.
According to Hansen, maintaining a strong world championship is crucial for inspiring younger generations and sustaining interest in rallycross across all levels of competition, similar to the sport's peak years of 2016-2018.