Hell awaits Grönholm as he makes World RX return.

PHOTO CREDIT: GRX Taneco

Niclas Grönholm will make a return to the FIA World Rallycross Championship this weekend after being sidelined for the last two races due to appendicitis surgery.

The Finn is excited to make his return but is aware of the challenges that lay ahead of him after recovering from a 6-week illness. 

“Nice to finally be able to race again," said Grönholm.

"It's been a long recovery where everything that can go wrong, went wrong. Setback after setback," he adds. "For sure it will be very challenging to come back after a 6-week illness, so my expectations are not that high, but I will give my maximum and we'll see where it takes me.” 

The Lånkebanen (Hell) is an old-school rallycross track, just over 1km in length and has a 37% of gravel and 63% tarmac.

Timur Timerzyanov, currently fifth in the drivers' standings is looking forward to racing in Norway.

“For me, Hell is the highlight of the World RX season," he said. "It’s a proper rallycross track with elevation changes, challenging gravel and tons of spectators. Action is always great there." 

The Russian is aiming high in Norway after failing to progress to the final in Silverstone after finishing in fifth place. 

"After a not so successful event in Silverstone, I’m keen to make my way back to the top this weekend,” he said.

TEXT - Junaid Samodien