What’s the Zwarte Cross Open?

Since the very first edition in 1997, motocross had been an integral part of the Zwarte Cross. What once started as a playful race in the Achterhoek region had grown into a world-class festival, welcoming no fewer than 277,000 visitors to Lichtenvoorde in 2025.

Innovation ran through the organization’s veins, and this was once again proven in 2024, when the motocross branch received a major update: the introduction of the Zwarte Cross Open.

The name Zwarte Cross Open said it all: an open competition where riders could easily participate within their own class. This new format exceeded all expectations.

Awesome circuits such as Halle, Varsseveld, Reusel, Heerde, Delfzijl, and even Texel quickly filled the 2024 calendar. Hundreds of riders took their shot during the qualifiers, with a thrilling semifinal in Halle—a former Zwarte Cross location—as the highlight. The crowd clearly loved it, and the races were incredibly exciting.

The final at the Zwarte Cross itself was also a huge success. The competitors were more evenly matched than ever before, a direct result of the new qualification system.

Due to the overwhelming success of 2024, the program was further expanded in 2025. Clubs such as Axel, Emmen, Hummelo, and Valkenswaard joined in, ensuring every rider could count on sufficient practice time and two solid race heats. More and more MON and Belgian riders joined the competition, partly thanks to the free one-day KNMV license for non-license holders.

In total, 240 riders made it to the final at the Zwarte Cross. During the festival, they—together with their families and friends—not only enjoyed great racing but also experienced the massive four-day festival surrounding it.

New classes, new opportunities in 2026

In 2025, the Classic classes also made their debut for two-stroke machines built up to and including 2008. This proved to be a golden move: countless former racers took their helmets off the hook to give it one more go. Interest was so high that the semifinal in Halle had to be expanded into a two-day event.

The momentum continued in 2026, when the program became even broader with four additional classes. There was more room for youth riders and for regional competitors.

Young riders aged 13 to 17 were able to compete in the Talenten 125cc class. Everyone was welcome, regardless of license type, as long as they fell within the age limit.

For riders without a racing license, there was the Regional Race class named StreekRace. Local heroes from across the country could compete in the 125cc class (from age 13), the 250cc class (from age 15), or the Open class (from age 16). MON license holders in the junior and senior categories were also allowed to enter.

In total, twelve classes lined up at the start of the Zwarte Cross Open in 2026. With new clubs, a packed calendar, and plenty of motocross action, it promised to be another edition full of spectacle, mud, and wide-open throttle. 280 riders made it to the final!

At the moment, the organization is planning the 2027 campaign. Please come back this november to find our more details.