Following the winter break, Riga marks the beginning of a new era for European Rallycross: with new categories, expanded grids and an ongoing focus on close, competitive racing, anticipation is high as the field prepares to go wheel-to-wheel for the first time this year.

In Euro RX1, a 30-strong grid - the largest for an opening round in almost a decade - sets the stage for a spectacular fight from the outset. Johan Kristoffersson headlines the field, as the eight-time World  Champion returns to elite Rallycross competition aiming to stamp his authority early. Standing in his way is a formidable list of contenders, including three-time European champion Andreas Bakkerud and 2024 Euro RX1 title-winner Patrick O'Donovan.

The depth of the field is further underlined by proven race winners such as Ole Christian Veiby and Juha Rytkönen, alongside home favourite Jānis Baumanis, who will carry strong local support into the weekend. Meanwhile, rising stars including Damian Litwinowicz, Joni Turpeinen and Martin Enlund are all tipped to challenge at the front in what promises to be an ultra-competitive field. 

In Euro RX3, the spotlight falls on a new generation of talent eager to make their mark. Noteworthy drivers include last year’s front-runner Rytis Gurklys, alongside consistent contenders such as Libor Teješ and Nicolas Geleyns. Young prospects like Julien Meunier and exciting challengers including Dylan Dufas add further range to a category renowned for producing future stars.
 
New for 2026, the Euro RX4 and Euro RX5 categories introduce a fresh wave of emerging talent to the championship. With strong entry numbers and a broad mix of nationalities, both categories are set to deliver intense, closely fought racing and provide a clear pathway for the next generation of Rallycross drivers. 

James Nixon, FIA Category Manager - Off Road and Hillclimb, said: "After months of preparation, it’s fantastic to finally arrive at the start of the 2026 FIA European Rallycross Championship. Over the winter, we have worked hard to deliver a Championship that both drivers and fans can truly engage with, while also beginning an important journey with the introduction of two new grassroots categories - designed to develop the champions of the future.

The response from teams has been extremely positive, and the level of competition we’ve seen in testing suggests that this could be one of the most competitive seasons in recent years - and Bikernieki is the perfect venue to begin this journey."

Pre-season testing at Bikernieki last week offered an early glimpse of what’s to come, with drivers and teams highlighting the circuit’s technical demands and the extremely close performance margins across the field. With 68 drivers entered across all categories, the competitive intensity is expected to be high from the very first session.
 
As one of Rallycross’ most respected venues, Bikernieki provides the perfect stage to open the season. Fast, technical and unforgiving, the Latvian circuit has a history of producing unpredictable racing and dramatic moments — a trend that looks set to continue as the 2026 campaign gets underway.

All rounds of the 2026 FIA Rallycross European Championship will be LIVE and FREE to watch on the FIA Rallycross YouTube channel.

FAST FACTS

40% GRAVEL / 60% TARMAC
 

❱ Historic Rallycross Venue:
Set within a forest on the outskirts of Riga, Bikernieki Circuit is Latvia’s only permanent motor racing circuit and one of the most distinctive venues on the rallycross calendar. First opened in 1966, it has long been a cornerstone of Baltic motorsport and a regular host of FIA European and World Rallycross events.

❱ Revival & Modern Era:
Recent redevelopment at the Biķernieki circuit, including resurfacing works and key safety upgrades, have further strengthened its reputation as one of Europe’s leading Rallycross venues.

❱ Multi-Layout Complex:
Bikernieki was conceived as a versatile motorsport hub, featuring multiple configurations including the “Speed Ring” and “Ring of Skill”, which can be combined into a longer circuit. Today’s Rallycross layout incorporates elements of these historic designs, blending legacy with modern race demands.

❱ More Than Motorsport:
Beyond racing, the Bikernieki complex remains active year-round. The circuit is regularly used by runners, cyclists and rollerbladers, while in winter it transforms into a cross-country skiing venue - highlighting its role as a central sporting hub in Latvia.

DRIVERS TO WATCH

❱ EURO RX1: All eyes will be on Johan Kristoffersson, as the eight-time world champion returns to elite Rallycross competition aiming to assert early dominance. He is joined by former European Champions Andreas Bakkerud and Patrick O'Donovan, both expected to be firmly in the fight from the outset. A strong supporting cast adds further intrigue, including race winners Ole Christian Veiby and Juha Rytkönen, while home favourite Jānis Baumanis will be a key figure backed by passionate local support.

❱ EURO RX3: A new wave of contenders looks set to shine in what is expected to be an even more competitive field in 2026. After almost taking the RX3 crown last season, Rytis Gurklys returns aiming to challenge for the title from the outset, while Libor Teješ will target consistent podium finishes after a promising campaign in 2025. Nicolas Geleyns enters his third season with ambitions of stepping onto the top step, as Dylan Dufas looks to translate extensive winter development into results on track.

2026 SEASON PREVIEW

BROADCAST TIMINGS

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