Coventry, a city synonymous with British car manufacturing, could be set to roar back into the motorsport limelight with a groundbreaking electric rallycross race. Organizers of MotoFest Coventry, the UK’s largest free-to-enter motoring festival, are in “advanced talks” with the FIA World Rallycross Championship to host a round of the electric-fuelled series in 2025.
This ambitious project would see a temporary circuit constructed on Coventry’s ring road, marking the first street circuit rallycross event in Britain since the Birmingham Superprix folded in 1990. The news comes hot on the heels of the sport’s successful city debut in Hong Kong last year, proving the high-octane, close-quarter racing can thrive in a city-centre setting.
The proposed Coventry track, designed by world-renowned track specialists Driven International with input from rallycross star Kevin Hansen, would seamlessly integrate into the existing MotoFest program. Alongside the electric rallycross spectacle, fans can expect the usual crowd-pleasers like the BARC Connaught Speed Championship sprint races, drifting demonstrations, and a vibrant display of classic and modern vehicles.
James Noble, MotoFest Coventry Festival Director, is brimming with enthusiasm: “We’re thrilled to be working with the FIA World Rallycross Championship. We’ve long dreamt of bringing competitive motorsport back to Coventry Ring Road, and with this electric twist, we’re taking MotoFest to a whole new level.”
Noble highlights the project’s dual purpose – celebrating Coventry’s rich motoring heritage while propelling the city towards a sustainable future. The “Battle of Technologies” era of World RX pits electric RX1e machines against sustainably-fuelled combustion cars, perfectly aligning with Coventry’s aspirations as a hub for transport innovation.
Arne Dirks, Managing Director of Rallycross Promoter, echoes Noble’s sentiments. “The electric revolution is transforming motorsport, and Coventry, with its strong sustainability credentials, presents the ideal backdrop for showcasing this exciting new era.”
The potential economic benefits are also significant. MotoFest already attracts over 200,000 visitors and injects an estimated £10 million into the local economy. A prestigious rallycross event is predicted to draw even bigger crowds and further bolster the region’s economic standing.
The coming months will be crucial as organizers engage with partners and residents to secure the necessary funding and ensure community support. Public consultations will play a vital role in shaping the final design of the circuit and mitigating potential disruptions.
If successful, this groundbreaking project would not only mark a significant milestone for British motorsport but also solidify Coventry’s position at the forefront of electric vehicle development and urban entertainment experiences.
