World RX leads the charge

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 15/08/2022 à 09:26

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The dynamic was excellent. Between 2014 and 2017, everything was successful in rallycross. The championship had acquired a global label from the FIA, the English promoter IMG had great projects, manufacturers were present and to shine they had recruited driving stars like Peter 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.

While it was the discipline with the wind in its sails, everything collapsed in a few months. The move to electric that everyone swore they wanted ended up dividing and opening the door to everyone for themselves. The actors (Audi, Volkswagen then Peugeot ) who had worn the rallycross at 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 20 years, the promoter also chose to throw in the towel, leaving the W face à un a