A historic venue in European rallycross, the Valkenswaard Eurocircuit will host a RallyX event for the second consecutive year on April 26–27. News that delights local organizers, who see the return of high-level rallycross as an excellent opportunity to continue supporting the discipline’s development in the Netherlands.
After more than a decade without a major rallycross event of this scope, the return of top-tier competition to the Dutch circuit immediately rekindled an enthusiasm many believed had faded. A feeling shared by local stakeholders, who viewed the arrival of RallyX primarily as a catalyst for renewed interest in the sport rather than simply another race weekend.
“It was a real pleasure to see a rallycross event capable of bringing together drivers from different backgrounds return to the Valkenswaard Eurocircuit. From the very first RallyX edition last year, the atmosphere of the great years was instantly back. This circuit is the very first European track specifically designed for rallycross and, as such, it naturally has a strong place in the history and identity of the discipline,” says Ralph Koks, who also serves as Race Director at the Eurocircuit.
That first edition also laid the foundations for a strong partnership between the RallyX promoter and local structures, foremost among them the NRV (Nederlandse Rallycross Vereniging) and the Eurocircuit itself. A shared understanding that quickly became apparent and helped clarify the future direction of the event.
“Working with the RallyX team was simple and extremely pleasant. It quickly became clear that the promoter and our organization shared the same vision: delivering a high-quality rallycross event that remains true to the original spirit of our commitment. The feedback from spectators and drivers alike was extremely positive, and everyone experienced a memorable weekend. Under those conditions, confirming a second edition in 2026 was the natural choice. The NRV and the Eurocircuit are very happy to continue this collaboration.”
While the inaugural edition met expectations both on track and in terms of public interest, it was also approached with caution from an organizational perspective. A deliberate and measured strategy, openly acknowledged by the organizers, who were mindful of the challenges involved in staging an event of this size.
“The 2025 edition marked our first event of this scale in more than twelve years. Despite very thorough preparation, there were still uncertainties, particularly regarding attendance, paddock management and overall costs. Out of caution, and to protect the club, we chose to limit our initial investments.”
“For 2026, we now have much clearer visibility. This allows us to consider a gradual step forward, with targeted investments such as additional grandstands, more entertainment and on-site activities, and an improved overall experience for visitors. We also want to involve the Valkenswaard community in a very specific and meaningful way.”
This desire to further enhance the event is based on a simple observation: the public responded in large numbers, and enthusiasm clearly exceeded initial expectations.
“The reaction from the public was extremely positive. Visitors left with smiles on their faces, and we received many compliments, along with numerous requests to organize another edition in 2026.”
Beyond the sporting action itself, the organizers now aim to position the Valkenswaard RallyX weekend as a broader experience, combining competition, friendliness and local appeal. A deliberate approach designed to reach a wider audience and strengthen the event’s roots within the region.
“Through RallyX, our ambition is to contribute actively to the development of rallycross at a regional and national level. We want to offer another exceptional weekend to our community of fans and drivers. We also encourage spectators to come with their families: Valkenswaard is perfectly suited to combining motorsport with a leisure stay. Just meters from the circuit, visitors can enjoy an indoor ski slope as well as the Center Parcs leisure complex, which offers a tropical swimming pool and a wide range of accommodation options.”
“The region itself is very attractive, with cities such as Eindhoven and Maastricht only a short distance away. In addition, in 2026, the Dutch national holiday, King’s Day, will take place on the Monday following the event. We therefore invite visitors to extend their stay and enjoy this festive occasion.”
With a favorable calendar, carefully targeted investments and a clearly defined local vision, Valkenswaard confirms that RallyX represents a first-class tool to continue developing rallycross in the region.