‘Battle of Technologies’ heralds new era for World RX

The FIA World Rallycross Championship will usher in a new era in 2024, as the field opens up to include sustainably-fuelled combustion-engined (ICE) cars alongside the current electric beasts – setting the stage for a thrilling ‘Battle of Technologies’.

Following two seasons of purely electric competition, ICE cars will be welcomed back into the fold from next season, running on sustainable fuel. This presents the prospect of a direct head-to-head duel between the RX1e machines and their RX1 rivals on a level playing field.

A maximum 16 entries will be permitted in 2024, with the championship open to applications from non-permanent drivers on a round-by-round basis.

The sporting format has similarly been tweaked, with the SuperPole shootout replaced by pre-determined starting positions in all heats to reduce the jeopardy of track evolution and thereby ensure greater parity.

Competitors will race for position rather than time, making the format more easily understandable. Moreover, championship points will be awarded for each heat race, semi-final and final, encouraging drivers to push flat-out on every single lap and amping up the action for fans.

Arne Dirks, Managing Director, Rallycross Promoter GmbH, said:

“As World RX races into its second decade, we are excited to introduce the new ‘Battle of Technologies’ concept. We have all seen and enjoyed the electrifying power and potential of RX1e over the past two years, and we have also witnessed a lot of passion for combustion-engined cars in Euro RX.

“There has been tremendous interest from drivers and teams across the board, and we believe this sustainable new format offers competitors and fans alike the best of both worlds.”