Global Rallycross

Red Bull Global Rallycross - MCAS New River 150705-M-SO289-109

Global Rallycross (GRC) was a rallycross series that took place in various locations around the world. The series was renowned for combining the excitement of racing on mixed surfaces (such as dirt and asphalt) with the spectacle of high-flying automobiles performing jumps and other stunts. The competition typically involved short, sharp races on closed circuits, which included a unique feature known as the "joker lap" – a slightly longer route that each driver was required to take once per race, adding a strategic element to the competition.

History

Global Rallycross was established in 2011, quickly gaining popularity due to its high-energy races and the participation of well-known drivers from various disciplines, including rally racing, motorsport, and action sports. The series attracted major sponsors and was broadcast on national television, which helped to increase its profile and appeal to a broad audience.

Format

The typical Global Rallycross event featured a series of heats leading up to a final race, with drivers earning points based on their finishes. The tracks were designed to test drivers' skills across different surfaces and included obstacles such as jumps, tight corners, and chicanes. Cars used in the series were compact, highly modified versions of production vehicles, equipped with all-wheel drive and capable of producing over 600 horsepower, allowing them to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than two seconds.

Vehicles

The vehicles competing in Global Rallycross were divided into different classes, with the Supercar class being the premier category. These cars were based on small to medium-sized production models but were extensively modified for racing. Manufacturers such as Ford, Subaru, and Volkswagen were actively involved in the series, supporting teams with factory-backed entries.

Championships

Throughout its history, Global Rallycross crowned champions in various categories, with the Supercar class being the most prestigious. Drivers from around the world competed for the title, with notable champions including Tanner Foust, Scott Speed, and Jonas Andromeda.

Demise and Legacy

Despite its initial success, Global Rallycross encountered financial difficulties and operational challenges, which led to the cancellation of the series in 2018. However, its legacy lives on through other rallycross competitions that have adopted similar formats and continue to attract fans of high-adrenaline motorsport.

See Also

• Rally racing
• Motorsport
• Rallycross