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In this breaking exclusive interview, we sit down with Ricardo Mitterer, former Series Manager of the Hard Enduro World Championship and key member of the WESS team, to get the real story behind the unexpected announcement that they will not be able to host the championship in 2025.

Ricardo pulls back the curtain on what led to this decision, revealing the financial challenges that ultimately made the 2025 championship unsustainable and how close they actually came to securing alternative funding before having to take a step back. He provides insight into the complicated relationship between WESS, FIM, and manufacturers like KTM, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics that influenced the championship's direction.

For riders and fans wondering what happens next, Ricardo discusses which iconic Hard Enduro events will still run independently in 2025 and offers some clarity for professional and privateer riders who had built their entire season around the championship acknowledging the perspective of athletes now facing an uncertain competitive landscape.

For the first time, get answers to the questions every Hard Enduro fan is asking: How did we get to this point? Is there still hope for a championship in 2025? And what happens next for a sport at a crossroads?

Whether you're a die-hard Hard Enduro enthusiast or casual follower, this candid conversation provides insight into the business realities of motorsport promotion and the uncertain future of the discipline we love.

Don't miss this must-watch interview on a topic that has the entire Hard Enduro community talking!

Chapters
00:00 Intro
00:23 Ricardo Mitterer Role at WESS
03:05 Transition from WESS to the HEWC
05:41 Role of FIM in the championship
07:18 The expense of having FIM involved
10:31 Manufacturers involvement in the championship 
12:56 Did KTM have an influence?
15:33 How close were you to meeting your financial target?
20:33 Can WESS return in the future?
21:48 Which races will still take place in 2025?
23:44 Advice for riders who relied on the championship
25:53 How did you support expenses like travel?
29:47 Junior an women rider initiatives 
33:35 Are WESS working with FIM to find a solution?
34:36 How could the championship still happen?
37:20 Would there be support for a new promoter?
38:59 How will fans be able to follow hard enduro this year?

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