Solberg versus Solberg, while Kristoffersson aims to defend his Gymkhana Grid crown.

PHOTO CREDIT: Gymkhana Grid.

Its Solberg versus Solberg; Petter versus Oliver at Gymkhana Grid at Carnival Circuit, Johannesberg on Saturday.

For the first time ever, 18-year-old Oliver Solberg will go head-to-head with the three-time FIA World Champion he calls Dad. 

And, as if Oliver doesn’t have enough to contend with, Johan Kristoffersson – a two-time FIA World Champion returns to defend his crown.

Johan and Petter will drive their Volkswagen Polo R Supercars that have dominated this year’s FIA World Rallycross Championship, while Oliver will drive his fathers nine-year-old Citroen Xsara WRC.

Oliver Solberg's Citroen Xsara WRC
PHOTO CREDIT: PSRX Volkswagen Sweden.

“It doesn’t seem very fair does it?” Oliver jokes. “I have only 380 horsepower, but they both have nearly 600 in their cars! It’s not going to be easy…"

“It will be quite strange to compete against my father. We have tested and raced against each other at home quite a lot – obviously I am always winning – but this will be different. This is the first time for us racing in a proper competition."

“Being a bit more serious, it will be really nice to be competing with Dad," says Oliver Solberg. "I think the biggest problem for the weekend could be for my Mum – who does she support?”

Petter Solberg is looking forward to go head-to-head with his son at the Gymkhana Grid on Saturday.

“It’s fantastic to be racing with Oliver,” he said. “He’s got a good car there, that Xsara was one of my favourites – and don’t believe what he’s telling you, for sure he has some tricks in that car. I know, I built it!”

Last year’s Gymkhana Grid winner Johan Kristoffersson has his eyes set on a second South African win in six days, having won last weekend’s World RX of South Africa.

“I love working and competing with the Solberg family,” said Kristoffersson, “but Saturday is going to be something special… facing two of them! 

“The Gymkhana Grid is a really nice event. It’s a place to do some drifting and some donuts and have some fun in the car," he adds. "It’s a cool event in a cool place with a lot of fans coming to watch.”