“HYROX has struggled to standardise its events: Some venues are indoor, while others are outdoor. The tracks vary; some consist of multiple laps, while others have only one lap,” Lousa explains in an exclusive interview.

According to him, factors such as the number of athletes on the track, temperature, humidity and even altitude can all influence qualification results – and ultimately who earns a spot in the Elite 15 at Majors and, by extension, the World Championships. While Lousa believes the new system largely neutralises these external variables, it also introduces new challenges.

Here’s how the updated Elite 15 qualification rules could reshape the sport of HYROX.