Atkinson targets World Rallycross drive in 2016

Former WRC driver, Chris Atkinson, is eyeing a drive in the FIA World Rallycross Championship after teaming up with Roots Management International.

The former Asia-Pacific Rally Champion is a six-time WRC podium finish, but his competition exploits have been few and far between recently. He sees rallycross as a great way to get back behind the wheel.

"I think the WorldRX concept is great. I've always thought Rallycross was a really sweet format and you can see that now with the way the FIA World Rallycross Championship is growing,” Atkinson said.

“Manufacturers are coming into it and it's evolving to the stage where it's becoming a lot more professional.

“WRC cars are incredible but these Rallycross cars are pretty much double the power of a WRC car. Everyone who's driven one says it just blows your mind – you know, 0-100km/h in 1.8-2.0sec, anytime you're doing that, it's impressive.

“Racing would be crazy fun, you're basically in a weapon with eight other lunatics hoping you come out of the first corner. I can't wait to explore opportunities with the Roots team and get on the grid for 2016.”

The Australian drove for the Subaru World Rally Team between 2005-2008 and claimed two top ten finishes for Hyundai in Mexico and Australia last year.

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