Uncertain future for Sweden’s motocross and enduro school in Sävsjö

The National Elite Sports School (Riksidrottsgymnasiet, RIG) for motocross and enduro at Aleholmsgymnasiet in Sävsjö opened in autumn 2022. The programme gives young people from across Sweden the opportunity to combine their upper secondary education with elite-level motorsport training.

There are 24 places in total, spread across three academic years. Students follow a standard upper secondary school programme alongside specialised coaching and training in motocross or enduro.

On 23 October, Höglandsförbundet’s Education Committee decided not to apply for renewed authorisation for the period 2028/2029–2030/2031.

High costs behind the decision

According to Höglandsförbundet, the high cost of running the programme is one of the reasons behind the decision. Other factors include difficulties in establishing a financially sustainable organisation over the long term and ensuring consistent educational standards across the entire upper secondary school system.

Markus Kyllenbeck, Chairman of the Education Committee, emphasises that the decision must be viewed in the context of Höglandsgymnasiet’s overall needs.

“This is a responsible decision made with the wider organisation in mind, not a statement against either Sävsjö or motorsport,” he says in Höglandsförbundet’s press release.

The decision will not affect students currently enrolled in the programme or those admitted in autumn 2027. All will be able to complete their studies as planned.

Svemo determined to find a solution

Svemo views the announcement with concern and emphasises the importance of the programme for Swedish motocross and enduro.

The federation has been working alongside Sävsjö Municipality, Vrigstad MK and Aleholmsgymnasiet, among others, to find solutions that would allow the programme to continue. These efforts have included proposals to reduce costs.

Despite the decision, Svemo has not given up hope of securing the programme’s future in Sävsjö.

“We are extremely keen to see the programme continue,” says Peter Isgren, Coordinator of the National Elite Sports School for Motocross and Enduro, in a statement from Svemo.

FThe federation stresses that the programme plays an important role in developing young motorsport talent in Sweden and remains committed to ensuring that young riders have opportunities to combine their secondary education with elite-level training.

Under the current decision, autumn 2027 will be the final intake. A new solution will be needed if the programme is to continue beyond that point.

Svemo has, however, made it clear that its efforts to preserve the National Elite Sports School will continue.