SX Global dumps restrictions for 250cc WSX
The Aussie promoter has announced it will eliminate points thresholds and age or term limits for the SX2 class in the new-look FIM World Supercross ChampionshipSX Global, the Australian promoter now spearheading the FIM World Supercross Championship, has announced that it will eliminate several of the existing restrictions placed on the 250cc ‘SX2’ category, saying the move will “allow teams and riders more freedom to control their competitive opportunities and professional longevity”.
The new open format for the class will deliver significantly more freedom and flexibility for both teams and riders, the promoter says, while the class is now an officially sanctioned as an FIM World Championship – a status previously only reserved for the 450cc category.
Now both the 250cc and 450cc classes have world championship status, when the 2022 FIM World Supercross Championship gets underway in October.
“An official FIM World Championship for 250cc riders is something that’s been a long time coming in our sport, and with the truly global nature of our series, it just made sense to finally make it a reality for WSX as we move into this new era of global supercross competition,” said Adam Bailey, Managing Director – Motorsport, for SX Global.
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But the elimination of previous SX2 restriction will also have a major impact on the class, with the points threshold and age limit mandates that have been in place for decades effectively forcing riders up into the 450cc category – where limited places have ruled many talented riders out of the sport entirely.
“We want to ensure that the 250cc (SX2) class features the best talent the world has to offer and, to achieve that, we are opening it up to all competitors regardless of age or past success,” said Bailey.
“There have been numerous examples of limitations on 250cc class eligibility pushing high-level talent out of the sport, or into compromising scenarios that impede their career progression and earning potential.
“We want to ensure we’re doing everything we can to give supercross athletes the best possible career opportunities and increased longevity. A rider-first commitment is core to SX Global’s mission, and we feel this is the right move for the sport and its competitors.”
The FIM World Supercross Championship will take place annually in the second half of the year, including up to four events in 2022, from October through November.
This year will serve as a ‘pilot’ season, allowing the championship to build momentum going into 2023. SX Global says next year, and subsequent years, will see the FIM World Supercross Championship expand annually between June and November, with up to twelve events in 2023.
For more information www.wsxchampionship.com.
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