Driving a competition vehicle on dirt while still a junior is possible thanks to the international advent of Cross Car – small, off-road buggies powered by motorbike engines. 

The educational virtues of the Cross Car are no longer in question. Many famous drivers, especially rally and off-road stars, have made their mark in this field – and some of them, at the peak of their WRC or Rallycross careers, even take the controls of Cross Cars "just for fun", as these buggies are so powerful and exciting to drive.

Since 2021, the FIA European Autocross Championship has integrated two Cross Car categories, including a junior category reserved for drivers aged 13 to 16, called the FIA Cross Car Academy Trophy. 

The objective of this competition is to equalise the chances of the participants as much as possible: supplied by the LifeLive company, founded by WRC driver Thierry Neuville, the Cross Cars are identical for all: TN5 chassis, 690cc Yamaha MT07 engine, and new tyres at each race for all participants. 

And to facilitate the participation of the drivers, the equipment is transported from event to event by the supplier and the vehicles are maintained between races and at the race site by the LifeLive technical team. All the conditions are met so that each driver can concentrate 100% on learning to race.

Inaugurated in 2021, the formula has proven remarkably reliable, despite intensive driving on 100% dirt autocross circuits that are hard on the mechanics. Each race weekend consists of practice sessions, three qualifying heats and a final phase. 

Due to the format and the unique provision of equipment, entries are limited to 20 – and there are still a few places left for those interested.

Further information on conditions and fees can be obtained directly from LifeLive (info@life-live.be) or the FIA Off-Road Department (xc-crosscar@fia.com).

Useful links: https://www.xcacademytrophy.com/ and https://www.fia.com/events/european-autocross-championship/season-2022/european-autocross-championship

Please click here to view a video on the Cross Car Academy

2022 FIA Cross Car Academy Trophy calendar

25-26 June: Matschenberg (DEU)

30-31 July: Toldijk (NLD)

20-21 August: Prerov (CZE)

24-25 September: Maggiora (ITA)

8-9 October: Mollerussa (ESP)