Asia-Pacific debut for World RX with Hong Kong season finale

An entirely new venue will play host to the 2023 FIA World Rallycross Championship season finale, as Hong Kong prepares to bring down the curtain on the series’ second campaign of all-electric competition on 11-12 November.

Following a whistle-stop tour through Europe during the summer and then a return to South Africa in October, World RX – which blends the very best aspects of circuit racing and rallying in a thrilling, head-to-head format – will expand its horizons by venturing to the Asia-Pacific region for the very first time, where the champion will likely be crowned.

The ground-breaking, edge-of-the-seat series will cap its tenth season of competition in a city that shares myriad mutual synergies with rallycross’ top-tier – from cutting-edge technology to an increasingly sustainability-centred approach – while firmly reinforcing its global status.

Dr. Ringo Lee Yiu Pui, President, Hong Kong Automobile Association (HKAA), said:

“We are pleased to see international motorsport return to Hong Kong. With over 100 years of history, the HKAA is experienced in organising major events, and we are proud that Hong Kong will become the first venue in the Asia-Pacific region to welcome the FIA World Rallycross Championship, bringing the ultimate in motorsport entertainment to our city. On behalf of the HKAA, I would like to thank (event promoter) Teamwork Creative Events, as well as all the sponsors and construction partners for making this happen.”

Wesley Wan, MH, Chief Consultant of World RX (HK) Management, said:

“Motorsport is my passion, and as a fast-paced and exciting city, we believe Hong Kong is the perfect place to host such a fast-paced and exciting event as World RX. Everyone agrees the site for the rallycross track has the best backdrop in the city, and with most of the circuit surrounded by grandstands, spectators will be able to see all of the action. It will be maximum entertainment, and with a multi-year contract, this is just the beginning!”

Organised locally by the Hong Kong Automobile Association (HKAA) and supported by the Cultural, Sport and Tourism Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the race weekend – the inaugural edition of a three-year agreement – will serve up a double-header of electrifying action, with a round on each day. It will take place in Hong Kong’s Central Harbourfront Event Space, right next to the iconic Victoria Harbour, where an all-new circuit will stage the first city centre contest in World RX history.

World RX of China, Hong Kong was officially announced today (21 March) during a launch ceremony at the city’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel, attended by a host of VIPs and key media.

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

“We are thrilled to confirm Hong Kong as the venue for the final two rounds of the 2023 FIA World Rallycross Championship. Just being here today, it is clear to see what a spectacular location we are in, and what a magnificent backdrop Victoria Harbour and the central business district will provide for our high-stakes season finale and first-ever city race. It has been a pleasure to collaborate so positively and proactively with both HKAA and HKSAR to turn this vision into reality. Hong Kong – let’s race!”

Lung-Nien Lee, FIA Vice-President for Sport Asia-Pacific, said:

“It is the FIA’s mission and responsibility to lead motorsport into a low-carbon future, to reduce its environmental impact and contribute to a greener planet. World RX being fully electric is in-line with the FIA’s commitment to sustainability and acting as a technological laboratory. I would like to congratulate World RX, the Cultural, Sport and Tourism Bureau of the HKSAR and the HKAA for not only organising this event but also showcasing Asia’s commitment to environmental sustainability.”

2023 FIA World Rallycross Championship Calendar

April 29-30 Euro RX1/RX3 Euro RX of Hungary, Nyirád

June 3-4 Round 1 World RX of Portugal, Montalegre
June 17-18 Round 2 World RX of Norway, Hell
July 1-2 Round 3 World RX of Sweden, Höljes
July 22-23 Round 4 World RX of United Kingdom, Lydden Hill *
August 5-6 Round 5 World RX of Benelux, Mettet *
August 19-20 Round 6 World RX of Germany, Estering
October 7-8 Rounds 7/8 World RX of South Africa, Cape Town *
November 11-12 Rounds 9/10 World RX of China, Hong Kong *

* Subject to track homologation