An experienced autocross specialist from the Netherlands and no stranger to the adrenaline rush of off-road racing, Tom van den Heuvel is now preparing to take on the challenges of rallycross. He will be behind the wheel of the formidable VW Polo Supercar previously driven by Sivert Svardal in the FIA European Championship.

Although the Dutchman has yet to officially confirm his 2025 programme, all signs point to him joining the RallyX championship, with an announcement expected by the end of February.

“As a newcomer to rallycross, joining the RallyX series is a big step for us. We’re always looking for tough competition, as we believe it brings out the best in you,” says Tom.

“More importantly, RallyX provides a platform where less experienced drivers like myself can develop significantly and gain the necessary experience to prepare for competitions like Euro RX and beyond. When you look at the list of drivers who have come through RallyX, it’s clear that this is a championship of the highest calibre. For me, it’s an incredible opportunity to see where I stand against the best in the sport.”

As van den Heuvel prepares for his rallycross debut, his motorsport experience is far from insignificant.

“I started my ‘career’ in local races and after a few years I climbed the ranks, winning regional championships and eventually the national title in the Netherlands. Throughout my journey I’ve always followed rallycross because for me it’s the ultimate form of racing. In autocross, race strategy doesn’t play a big role, whereas in rallycross the joker lap can completely shake up the competition”

“Rallycross is also much more technical, especially because of the evolution of the tracks and the different surfaces from one circuit to another. One thing is for sure – having had the chance to test the Polo at the end of last season, I can’t wait to drive it in an official competition. We’re now in the final stages of our preparations and should be able to announce the full list of races we’ll be contesting in the RallyX championship by the end of February.”