FIA World Rallycross in Hong Kong: minister and race officials defend city over delayed, shortened event

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung says ‘technical aspects may have posed some challenges’, adding ‘we certainly hope to do better’ in future

Race consultant insists ‘mission impossible’ was achieved, while FIA boss says ‘we want to talk about the length of the track’ but hopes event returns in 2024

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Sunday’s World Rallycross racing unfolds at Central Harbourfront. Photo: Jonathan Wong

Published: 10:20pm, 12 Nov 2023Updated: 11:20am, 13 Nov 2023

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung Yun-hung has defended the organisation of the World Rallycross Championship races this weekend, but said the city “hopes to do better” in future.

Central Harbourfront was the setting for the competition’s season-ending races as it came to Hong Kong for the first time. But Saturday’s action was delayed by more than four hours after the late arrival of gravel and safety barriers held up construction of the circuit, before racing began on a scaled-down track.

“Sometimes, certain adjustments may be necessary based on practical situations,” Yeung said. “It is the first time they have raced on roads used by the public or in the community.

“In the past, it was held in established venues, so these technical aspects may have posed some challenges for them. We will discuss these issues.”

Hong Kong hosted the rallycross event for the first time but it started late, on a shortened track. Photo: Jonathan Wong

Yeung said the government supported hosting large-scale events, to showcase Hong Kong’s ability to do so and to attract visitors.

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