The World RX with forced load

The recent promoter of World RX is trying to bring the discipline out of the indifference into which it has fallen in recent years. By focusing on all-electric, the transformation is radical, perhaps beneficial, but it comes with the risk of cutting yourself off from the usual audience without attracting a new one.

Published on 24/08/2022 à 11:15

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Will World RX return to its former popularity? Red Bull

The dynamics of World RX were excellent. Between 2014 and 2017, everything was successful rallycross. The championship had acquired a global label from the FIA, the English promoter IMG had no shortage of great projects, manufacturers were present and, to shine, they had recruited driving stars like Petter Solberg, Ken Block or Sébastien Loeb. At that time, the visit to the paddock was definitely worth it as the structures were impressive with spectacular cars and luxurious reception areas. The days of mud-caked feet, basic tents and barbecues with sausages in the back of the truck seemed far away.

World RX – Hell © Red Bull

While it was the discipline with the wind in its sails, everything collapsed in a few months. The transition to electric, which everyone swore they wanted, ended up dividing and opening the door to everyone for themselves. The actors (Audi, Volkswagen, then Peugeot ) who had taken rallycross to the top gradually withdrew, leaving behind them a moribund championship which then took the pandemic head on. In 2020, although having the rights for the next twenty years, IMG also chose to throw in the towel, leaving World RX facing a very uncertain future, with only teams p