The FIA World Rallycross Championship launched the new layout to be used for the first ever running of the World RX of South Africa at Killarney International Circuit.
The launch event was attended by several drivers from World RX including two time Drivers Champion Petter Solberg and Munnich Motorsport Team Owner Rene Munnich. 2016 RX2 International Series champion Cyril Raymond and South African rally driver Jon Williams were also on hand to see he new circuit launched.
Rene Munnich was one of several drivers to try out the new Rallycross layout at Killarney International Circuit. Credit: IMG / FIA World RX
Williams, who is the only South African to have contested a full WRC campaign, announced that he would compete in the event, driving a OMSE RX Supercar and is looking forward to the challenge.
“This is a dream come true, I’ve come from track racing to rallying and now rallycross, it is the perfect combination for me. I can’t wait to compete in front of my home crowd and I hope the people of South Africa can fully get behind me.”
Solberg, Munnich and Raymond all tested the new circuit during the event and Solberg commented on how he is eager for the challenge of the new event.
“We have so much passion for coming to new places, driving at new circuits and I’m very happy to come here. It’s fantastic that IMG is taking the World Championship to a new continent. It’s great to have a local hero Jon Williams confirmed to compete at his home round too. The track looks very technical in places and it’s all about being flat out.”
Deputy Executive Mayor for the City of Cape Town, Alderman Ian Neilson as well as Petter Solberg at the Launch event for the 2017 round of the World RX of South Africa. Credit: IMG / FIA World RX
Deputy Executive Mayor for the City of Cape Town, Alderman Ian Neilson explained how the event would grow as a long term part of the World RX Calendar.
“With World RX coming to South Africa, we really have an event of great value and international exposure coming to our city. To have a five-year deal in place is fantastic news and means we’re really able to build the brand here in Cape Town,” he explained. “We not only have the drivers, teams and families but I think primarily for us the TV and international media coverage is where the real value lies, which will really help to put Cape Town on the map.”
The 2017 World RX of South Africa takes placed between 10 – 12 November as the series finale.
