After re-emerging onto the motorsport scene last year—more than three decades after hosting a round of the FIA European Championship—the spectacular Swedish track in Älvsbyn is gearing up with renewed excitement to welcome the RallyX series for only the second time in its history, on June 28 and 29.
Recognized in 2024 as one of the championship’s most visually stunning circuits, Älvsbyn delivered some of the most memorable moments of the season.
And for the organizing club, Älvsbyns Motorsällskap, and its president Viktor Johansson, anticipation is high as RallyX prepares to return to the far north of Sweden.
“Last year, hosting RallyX was a very special moment for us,” recalls Viktor Johansson.
“That race truly marked a turning point for everyone. Seeing a top-level championship and elite drivers back on our track rekindled the spark. The atmosphere, the energy, the passion—everything was there to make it an unforgettable experience. In fact, when the race ended, we all had the same feeling: something big had just begun here.”
That feeling was all the more powerful because it tapped into decades of racing history.
In 1994, the track hosted a round of the European Championship, including a legendary final under pouring rain between Kenneth Hansen and Martin Schanche. The return of RallyX more than thirty years later stirred memories of that rich heritage.
“This event wasn’t just a race,” Johansson insists.
“It was a nod to our history—a kind of homecoming. We carry with us some incredible stories from the 1990s, kept alive by our volunteer teams and by everyone who helped shape this venue into what it is today. Here, names like Per Eklund, Kenneth Hansen, and Tommy Kristoffersson aren’t just drivers—they’re legends woven into the very DNA of the Älvsbyn track.”
It’s a powerful identity that Älvsbyns Motorsällskap is determined to pass on.
“As organizers, it’s our job to carry this legacy forward. Last year, we succeeded in creating new memories—moments that will stay with the younger generations and the people involved in our team today. That means everything to me, because that’s how this sport grows. Motorsport isn’t just about competition; it’s also about crafting experiences that live on in the imagination of fans. And I truly believe we delivered on that mission.”
Buoyed by the success of their first outing, the organizers are approaching the 2025 edition with confidence.
“We now have a full season of experience behind us. We’ve learned a lot, and everyone has gained confidence. We’re continuing to build, step by step. We know what worked last year, but more importantly, we know what needs improvement—and we’re more ready than ever to raise the bar. We had great spectator numbers in 2024, but we’re expecting even more this year. RallyX is gaining momentum, and we have to admit: our fans up here had never seen motorsport at this level. What we showcased last year really opened a lot of eyes across the region.”
One thing is certain: Viktor Johansson is hopeful that this growing enthusiasm will attract even more drivers.
“In the Open 2WD category, I think we’re going to see a real surge this year. Driver interest is strong, and the excitement is genuine. People saw what we built last season, and now they want to be part of the adventure. Of course, the dream would be to bring in international stars like Tanner Foust and others—but we’re feeling incredibly positive. We’ve got the cars, the passion, and now the momentum to take things even further this season.”