Kristoffersson rules the roost to further extends championship lead.

PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

Johan Kristoffersson has extended his 2023 FIA World Rallycross Championship lead with another convincing win in Cape Town, South Africa on Saturday afternoon.  

It wasn't all plain sailing for Kristoffersson, who had to work hard to fight back after having his unbeaten SuperPole record broken by a hungry Kevin Hansen by the slimmest of margins - 0.081s, whilst three different drivers won the heat races - Johan, Timo Scheider and Timmy Hansen. 

However, it was the Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS driver who was more consistent than the rest of the field ending the heats at the summit of the standings ahead of Timmy Hansen and Scheider.

Kristoffersson and team-mate OC Veiby claimed victory in their respective semi-final. The latter had the path opened for him after Timmy Hansen hit a rutt at turn 3, which sent him straight into the barrier on the jump. The older of the Hansen brothers' kept pushing kept it pinned to bring his damaged ZERIOD X1 home in second to seal a place in the final behind the aforementioned Veiby.

Having locked out the front row, it seemed relatively simple for Johan Kristoffersson, who placed his car at a defensive angle from pole position, but with a good start, he luckily survived a turn-one squeeze in the final to make his escape, whilst the Hansen brothers' looked to make the most of their day. 

As Kristoffersson scampered off into the distance, OC Veiby came under immense pressure, to the extent that he defended quite aggressively, leading to Timo Scheider slipping up the inside of both to slot into second on the road, whilst Veiby stopped on track and was later reprimanded for the incident with Timmy. 

Kevin Hansen who jokered on lap 2, kept pushing whilst the drama happened ahead, to claim second over, whilst Johan emerged victorious by 3.915s to claim his 39th career victory. 

“It’s really good to be back and it’s always nice to win,” Kristoffersson said. “It was a tricky day, but I was lucky enough not to be in the traffic too much; I imagine it was easier for me than for the others, because it was difficult to follow with such limited visibility. These cars are a little bit different to the ones we are used to driving and the field is really tight. The first couple of corners in the final were pretty exciting and I actually thought I was going to spin in Turn Two; the track also got quite rutted in places, so I just played it safe to avoid any punctures and bring it home. Now we’ll try to do the same again tomorrow.”

Speaking in the press conference after the final, the top three drivers pointed out that the circuit was quite challenging with the amount of dust, which caused visibility issues, which they have demanded should be fixed with the use of more dust-ex. 

The action continues tomorrow at the Killarney International Racing tomorrow, with Johan potentially on the cards to lift a sixth championship title should be win the final. But, can anyon stop the Super Swede?

"Every piece of the puzzle was there" to lift the 2019 title had Grönholm not suffered from appendicitis.

PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

Niclas Grönholm has firmly established himself as one of the championship stars, with his cool, but calm demeanor. 

In the 2019 season, he was regarded as the quickest driver, and could have challenged for the 2019 title, however, due to appendicitis, he was forced to sit out of two rounds. But, he was quick to rebound with a victory in Norway, and at the season finale in Cape Town, which was overshadowed by the tense title tussle between Timmy Hansen and Andreas Bakkerud. 

Speaking to Rhea Morar at the Killarney International Raceway, the Finn said: "Obviously, it felt good [to win the 2019 World RX of South Africa]. That was the target to win some races after I missed a few races. We couldn't win the championship that was pretty clear, but overall, it still feels quite bad."

"I felt that year I was the most prepared that I've ever been. I had a really good feeling with the car and the driving, and I was physically in really good shape when the season started until I got sick."

Grönholm admits that all the stars aligned in 2019, but unfortunately, a case of appendicitis proved costly for his ambitions to be a world champion that season. 

"So, since then it's not quite the same. I think that year was really a good feeling in the team, and I think every piece of the puzzle was there, but then I didn't go to the doctor in time, but for sure, that was a good year," he said.

Audio Source/Interview Quote: Rhea Morar and Russell Atkins. 

Written By: Junaid Samodien 

Kristoffersson looking forward to Cape Town return with "100 percent win" record.

PHOTO CREDIT: Qnigan/Kristoffersson Motorsport

The FIA World Rallycross Championship 'finally' returns with a double-header in Cape Town, South Africa following a fire at Lydden Hill that destroyed two Special One Racing cars, equipment, and a truck.

After three months on hold, the World Rallycross Championship returns after the FIA World Motor Sport Council elected to continue the championship, but with equal cars, as the investigation into the route cause of a battery fire at Lydden Hill continues. 

Five-time World Champion Kristoffersson took a firm hold on the title fight during the third round of the championship early this season. With a maximum of 69 points up for grabs, and a lead of 27 points over runner-up Niclas Grönholm.

"Finally, it will be a race again! I'm really looking forward to driving in Cape Town," Johan Kristoffersson said. 

"100 percent wins down there. Also, I won the Gymkhana in Johannesburg, so I know worse places to go than South Africa. In general, I also enjoy it there. There are nice people, a nice atmosphere, and very good food."

Despite a big lead in the championship, he doesn't feel completely confident yet.

"It is late in the year, but there are actually more than 50 percent of the competitions still left. You have to be on your guard, but after all, I'd rather sit in my seat with a 27-point lead than have to take risks and chase," the Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS driver said.

Team-mate Ole Christian Veiby, on the other hand, will make his competitive debut on South African soil this weekend and said: "It'll be fun. The course looks really fun. We were also fast with these cars in Belgium. It is very important that we have driven this type of car a little before."

The Swedish squad has set a goal for the four remaining rounds - two in Cape Town and two in Hong Kong in November.

"Johan will win the driver's championship, where we will also get Ole Christian up on the podium and then we will secure the team championship," Tommy Kristoffersson, Kristoffersson Motorsport team manager, said. 

PREVIEW: World RX returns to the Mother City with a thriller in prospect.

PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

After over two months, the FIA World Rallycross Championship finally gets back underway in Cape Town, South Africa at the Killarney International Raceway with the first double-header of the season. 

The last time World RX visited the Mother City [in 2019], fans were treated to arguably the most tense championship fight in history, as Timmy Hansen and Andreas Bakkerud went mona-e-mona for title glory, clashing on the first lap of the final and ending up tied on points – with Hansen prevailing on countback.

Hansen returns this weekend, as he bids to close the gap to championship leader Johan Kristoffersson. The 2019 Champion failed to finish two events this year, as a result of the FIA Safety Light system. 

The World Championship has been on hold since a devastating fire destroyed Special One Racing's cars, equipment, and truck at Lydden Hill just over two months ago, but with the season now resuming using equal machinery - the ZEROID X1 cars, the battle is back on with a vengeance.

It also means that for the first time in World RX history, there will be a completely level playing field, as all competitors take to the track in equal machinery – placing the emphasis firmly on skill behind the wheel and engineering expertise to extract the very last thousandth-of-a-second.

Six of the drivers in the field have already sampled the ZEROID X1 through guest outings in the FIA RX2e Championship during the summer. Kristoffersson won the RX2e event at Mettet in Belgium, and went unbeaten in Cape Town in 2017 and 2018 – on both occasions, having already clinched the coveted crown.

This time, the fight for honors is still very much alive, and while the Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS star will arrive in the ‘Mother City’ holding a 27-point advantage at the summit of the standings, his rivals are firmly focused on chasing him down.

THE TRACK: KILLARNEY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY

THE TRACK INFORMATION:

Track Length: 0.663 miles (1.067KM)

2019 Winner: Niclas Gronholm

Asphalt/Dirt: 60%/40%

Joker Lap Loss: 2.6 seconds (approximately)

2023 FIA WORLD RX OF SWEDEN: ENTRY LIST

Johan Kristoffersson (Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS) 

Timmy Hansen (Hansen World RX Team)

Niclas Gronholm (CE Dealer Team)

Kevin Hansen (Hansen World RX Team)

Ole Christian Veiby (Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS) 

Klara Andersson (CE Dealer Team)

Timo Scheider (ALL-INLK Munnich Motorsport)

Rene Munnich (ALL-INLK Munnich Motorsport)

Round 7 &8 - World RX of South Africa (CAT Times)

SATURDAY:

SUPERPOLE: 09:05

HEAT 1: 14:10

HEAT 2: 14:30

HEAT 3: 15:00

SEMI-FINAL: 15:19

FINAL: 15:35

SUNDAY:

SUPERPOLE: 09:05

HEAT 1: 14:10

HEAT 2: 14:30

HEAT 3: 15:00

SEMI-FINAL: 15:19

FINAL: 15:35

2023 FIA WORLD RALLYCROSS - CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS [AFTER ROUND 6]:

1) Johan Kristoffersson (Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS) - 69 POINTS

2) Niclas Gronholm (CE Dealer Team) - 42

3) Kevin Hansen (Hansen World RX Team) - 38

4) Ole Christian Veiby (Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS) - 35

5) Timmy Hansen (Hansen World RX Team) - 33

6) Timo Scheider (ALL-INLK Munnich Motorsport) - 31

7) Klara Andersson (CE Dealer Team) - 30

8) Sebastien Loeb (Special ONE Racing) - 29

9) Guerlain Chicherit (Special ONE Racing) - 27

10) Gustav Bergstrom (Kristoffersson Motorsport) - 20

11) Rene Munnich (ALL-INLK Munnich Motorsport) - Making debut in Cape Town

Achieving ‘perfection the quickest’ will make the ‘biggest difference’ with equal cars.

PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

The 2023 FIA World Rallycross Championship returns after nearly 3 months following a destructive fire at Lydden Hill in July, which destroyed two Lancia Delta Evo-E’s, the Special One Racing’s equipment, and a truck. 

As the extensive investigation continued over weeks and months, the 2023 championship seemed in doubt, however, the FIA World Motor Sport Council [WMSC] took an unprecedented decision through an e-vote to continue the season with equal machinery citing ‘logistical complications and the continued investigation.’

The decision was taken that all drivers will compete in equal cars – the ZERIOD X1 [RX2e] vehicles. A car that was designed to ‘emphasize the drivers' abilities behind the wheel, prioritizing his or her skill and ingenuity.’

The ZEROID X1 vehicles generate 270kW (362bhp) of power and up to 510Nm torque, but with equal machinery, what will be the defining difference between winning and losing with four rounds remaining?

“It’s got a lot to do with the driving,” Kevin Hansen explained. “When the cars are so similar. It then goes down to the driving and the very fine engineering details. Everyone will have the same or similar adjustments, so it will all come down to the absolute smallest of ideas, compared to when we develop our own cars.”

“It will all come down to finding the perfect balance with this type of car. I think for sure, it’s going to be a big challenge, but we have some experience, and hopefully, we can put that together.”

The Hansen brothers’ together with Kristoffersson Motorsport competed in the ZERIOD X1 cars earlier this year in the penultimate round of the RX2e championship in Mettet [Belgium], with championship leader Kristoffersson claiming victory. 

The 25-year-old Hansen, admits that the ZERIOD X1 car “suits my driving” style. 

“The ZERIOD X1 cars, which I actually used to drive [earlier in my career]. It is very similar in the base, and I have had good results, and a lot of learning from that style of car,” Kevin said. 

“It’s a style of car that really, really suits my driving. and I really enjoy driving it a lot. I drove in the car in the last few months, we competed in Mettet [Belgium] earlier this year, where for the first time, we set the pace, as the Hansen team, and Kristoffersson team had to play a bit of catch-up.”

“[So, I think] we are in a good place, and we are hopeful, that we continue that strong performance. Obviously, Johan [Kristoffersson] is leading the championship, and he is a very strong driver, and my brother will be in the most similar material as well. So, it’s going to be very challenging. But, I think we have great support from our family team. And, I think we have the best chance coming down to Cape Town to win the race.” 

Kevin Hansen [left] and Timmy right] chatting in Belgium.
PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

With a healthy 23-point lead in the 2023 FIA World Rallycross Championship, Johan Kristoffersson is the favorite to lift a sixth title this year, however, Timmy Hansen admits that despite a sizeable gap in the championship, adapting to the RX2e cars will be crucial. 

“He [Johan] has had a fantastic season, and, he has a big lead in the championship. I’ve had two retirements earlier in the season. On two occasions, the FIA safety light came on after big G-force [impact], and I had to retire from the race[s], so me being in fifth, and Kevin is third. Of course, we want to get there, but it’s more about this stage of being in the middle and having to adapt to these new cars. You need to drive in a different way,” Timmy Hansen said. 

The 2019 World Champion admits that he struggled to adapt to the ZERIOD X1 cars when driving in Mettet earlier this year. 

“I was struggling a bit at the race in Belgium. I struggled with not having the power on the exit of the corners that I’m used to. These cars have about 200kW’s less. So, they are 300kW instead of 500 now,” he said.

“I need to adapt, but also I’ve been working super hard. I’ve been driving different cars, and I have been trying to get my head around this different driving style. That is really where my head is at, and I am going to arrive in Cape Town giving it my everything. I am going to do things differently from what I did in Belgium. I need to figure out exactly how to get the most out of this car, and then hopefully, we can fight for the win and whatever that means at the end of the story, whatever that means for the championship is a different story, but I want to be competitive, and that is the focus.”

“I think this is all very interesting – it’s a new equal playing field for us all, and it’s about who can get to that perfection the quickest, and it’s not going to be a big difference between the cars that we are in. It’s going to be more about the driver. So, I need to be sharp on the day, and just go fast.”

It's hard to tell who will reign supreme in Cape Town, so make sure you get your tickets today for the 2023 World Rallycross of South Africa. 

With equal cars ‘it’s all about the fastest and smartest driver’ - Veiby.

OC Veiby leading team-mate Johan Kristoffersson in Mettet. 
PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool. 

Ole Christian Veiby is excited for his first trip to Cape Town for the World RX of South Africa (on 7-8 October) and predicts that with equal machinery ‘the fastest and smartest driver’ will prevail. 

The FIA World Rallycross Championship is returning to South Africa next month after a four-year hiatus - but is also returning to action following a mid-season pause as a result of an ongoing investigation due to a destructive fire that destroyed Special One Racing’s cars, equipment, and truck in Lydden Hill back in July. 

With a lengthy pause on the championship, OC Veiby returned to the cockpit alongside team-mate Johan Kristoffersson, and the Hansen brothers, Timmy and Kevin, who all participated in the FIA RX2e championship round at Mettet in Belgium – enabling them to gain some initial experience in the ZERIOD X1 that he and his rivals will be driving in Cape Town, South Africa. 

“We raced in Belgium, and we have some experience with the cars [ZERIOD X1], and it is a bit different from what we are used to. We need to adapt to that, but the cars are completely similar,” he said. 

The 27-year-old Norwegian admits that the RX1e cars they started the electric era with are relatively similar, because all teams use the Kriesel-developed battery packs and electric motors, with the only real difference coming from the suspension, dampers, etc., but in Cape Town and Hong Kong [season finale], all teams and drivers will race with equal cars, with the only difference coming from “small set-up” changes. 

“The cars that we are used to racing this year were also quite similar – we have the same battery pack, we have the same motor and everything. So, they were also quite equal. The only difference was the suspension, and what you could do in that area,” the Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS driver said. 

“Now they are completely similar [with RX2e cars]. We raced with them in Belgium, and we have some experience with the cars. It is a bit different from what we are used to. So, we need to adapt to that, but the cars are completely similar.”

 “There are small things that we can do with the set-up, to make it faster. So, it’s all about the fastest and smartest driver.”

FIVE REASONS TO ATTEND THE 2023 WORLD RX OF SOUTH AFRICA

Johan Kristoffersson battling Timmy Hansen and OC Veiby.
PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

Lights Out and Away We Go… After four long years, the FIA World Rallycross Championship returns to the shores of Cape Town, South Africa for a double-header at Killarney International Raceway on 7 & 8 October 2023.

The Killarney International Raceway has staged a round of the championship since 2017, the first FIA World Championship to be held in Sub-Saharan Africa in over 20 years. 

Having dominated the World RX of South Africa in 2017 and 18, five-time World Champion Johan Kristoffersson returns leading a star-studded line-up featuring, history maker Klara Andersson, the Hansen brothers’, Niclas Gronholm, Timo Scheider, Ole Christian Veiby, and Rene Munnich. 

2019 World Champion Timmy Hansen, will also return to the circuit, where he clinched his maiden title in a rather dramatic season finale. Fast forward to 2023, another title could be clinched in Cape Town… but, why should you attend the 2023 FIA World Rallycross Championship? Here’s why:

The ZERIOD X1 [or RX2e] car blueprint.
PHOTO CREDIT: FIA RX2e Championship

1. THE CARS

The FIA has made an unprecedented decision to continue the 2023 World RX championship with RX2e cars [better known as ZERIOD X1], as the investigation into the destructive fire that gutted Special ONE Racing [RX1e] in Lydden Hill continues.

The ZERIOD X1 is the formal name of the spec car used in RX2e. Developed by QEV Technologies, it weighs 1,170 kg and is capable of 335 horsepower with 510 Nm of torque.

Seven of the 8 confirmed drivers have driven the RX2e cars earlier this year, with Kristoffersson winning the penultimate round of the RX2e championship. 

The FIA homologated Cape Town RX track layout.
Source: FIA

2. THE TRACK

The very fast Killarney track is 1.060 km in length with some high cornering speeds, making it an awe-inspiring test of commitment with its high grip nature, including its average speed of approximately 95.87 km/h. 

3. A CHAMPION CROWNED?

With a healthy 23-point lead in the drivers' standings, should Kristoffersson win both rounds [double-header] scoring the maximum amount of points available. He could be crowned a six-time World Champion on South African soil. 

4. HISTORY SPEAKS

South Africa first hosted a round of the FIA World Rallycross Championship in 2017, with Johan Kristoffersson winning the inaugural event, and returning a year later to win it again. 

The Mother City is happy stomping ground for the Super Swede, as well as, 2019 World Champion Timmy Hansen, who clinched the crown in a rather dramatic final. 

Level on points, it was ‘mano a mano’ in the 2019 final. Andreas Bakkerud had a lightning launch to lead the way, but in the tight sweeping turn 7, he ran a touch wide, which opened the door to Timmy Hansen, and he went for it. The two collided sending Bakkerud into the wall and Hansen spinning off the track, with Niclas Gronholm taking the lead. 

The Finn claimed victory, but who would clinch the title behind? Andreas Bakkerud finished second ahead of Timur Timerzyanov, with Timmy Hansen in fourth. But, by virtue of the countback rule, Hansen was declared the champion, after a lengthy investigation.

5. AFFORDABLE TICKET PRICES

Yes, that is correct. Tickets can be found here and a general access ticket for per day will cost R225 or you could purchase a Weekend Pass from R275. Compared to other live shows, this is a very good deal.

More so, grandstand tickets can now be purchased at a very reasonable price of R325 (Saturday) and R325 (Sunday).

A Trackside Bar ticket can also be purchased for R1,950 per day, with on-site parking also available.

Get your tickets now!

WRITTEN BY – Junaid Samodien

The FIA makes unprecedented call to continue World RX Championship with RX2e cars.

PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool. 

In an unprecedented move, the FIA World Motor Sport Council [WMSC] has voted to continue the 2023 World Rallycross Championship in single-make RX2e [ZERIOD X1] vehicles.

Two months after a fire gutted the Special ONE Racing team's cars, hospitality unit, and truck at Lydden Hill circuit, the dual-surface championship will resume in Cape Town for a thrilling double-header, a venue that saw the 2019 title come down to the wire. Thereafter, the championship heads to Hong Kong, for its first-ever Asian round. 

"It’s so important that we are able to complete the season, where we will see closer racing than ever with everyone running the same specification of cars," Kenneth Hansen, Hansen Motorsport Team Principal, said.

Niclas Gronholm and Klara Andersson, mixing it up with the full-time RX2e drivers.
PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

Having announced the resumption of the championship, the FIA highlighted the fact that the decision was not taken lightly, as the investigation continues, "and the logistics timeframe of shipping cars to Cape Town." 

"Rallycross Promoter is absolutely committed to travelling to Cape Town and Hong Kong for the final rounds of the season," Arne Dirks, Rallycross Promoter Managing Director, said. "What is absolutely paramount is that the world’s best drivers are there to compete, and we are absolutely certain that fans will be treated to a spectacular weekend of action in both locations."

“We thank the teams for their fantastic cooperation in making sure we will have a pulsating completion to the 2023 season.”

So, what are these ZERIOD X1 [RX2e cars] you ask? Well! The RX2e cars were designed to emphasize the abilities behind the wheel, prioritizing driver skill and ingenuity above all else. These cars have an output of 362 horsepower [270kW], these cars are underpowered compared to the RX1e cars - they produce 680 horsepower [500kW].

Whilst reading that might seem like a letdown. Just keep in mind that having drivers compete in "equal machinery" could really add additional spice to the championship, and could put a stop to Johan Kristoffersson and Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS' dominant run. Or will it?

The championship might have fallen silent, as investigations continued in the background, but the star drivers and teams kept racing with, Kristoffersson, Veiby, Gronholm, Andersson, Timmy, and Kevin Hansen all competing in RX2e championship rounds.

"It’s great that everyone will be using the RX2e cars for what will be two great events to finish 2023. We have great memories from Cape Town, where we won our first World RX Drivers’ title in 2019, and also Hong Kong on a brand-new city center circuit," Kenneth Hansen said.

A minimum of eight drivers have been confirmed for the World Rallycross of South Africa next month, so to avoid disappointment get your tickets today. 

2023 World Rallycross of South Africa tickets on sale today.

PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

Tickets for the 2023 FIA World Rallycross of South Africa will go on sale to the general public from 12:00 CAT today, Tuesday August 29.

Get ready for electrifying short-sharp racing, door-to-door overtakes, and breathtaking jumps, as the FIA World Rallycross Championship returns to South Africa at the Killarney International Raceway on October 7th and 8th, after a four-year hiatus.

The dual-surface championship will see the likes of five-time World Rallycross Champion Johan Kristoffersson return to the familiar stomping ground in his Volkswagen Polo RX1e. 

The Super Swede claimed dominant wins in the Mother City behind the wheel of his PSRX Volkswagen Polo in 2017 and 18. And, he currently leads the championship by 23 points heading into Cape Town, whilst rival Timmy Hansen, will return to a venue where he clinched the 2019 title in a rather dramatic season-finale in 2019 beating fan-favorite Andreas Bakkerud, by virtue of race wins [countback]. 

The Cape Town double-header will also allow motorsport enthusiasts to see the fastest and most powerful all-electric cars, which push out the equivalent of 680bhp and 880Nm of instant torque.

“I am delighted to announce that we are bringing another World Championship Motorsports event to South Africa. This time none other than the fabulous all-electric World Rallycross, to be staged over two days, at Killarney race circuit," Chairman of World RX of South Africa Iain Banner said. "With drivers like World Champion Johan Kristoffersson and the Hansen brothers, we can look forward to an incredible weekend of World Championship racing. A stunning ‘next up’ after our Formula E Cape Town race in February this year”.

Ticket prices start at R275 and are available from 29th August on Webtickets. Discounted family/group packages are also available. www.webtickets.co.za

Mettet win the "perfect outcome" for Kristoffersson after rear wheel damage.

PHOTO CREDIT: Qnigan/Kristoffersson Motorsport.

With all the drama that plagued the FIA RX2e Championship final at Mettet, Belgium on Sunday, it was five-time World Champion Johan Kristoffersson who claimed top honors, winning by 5 seconds despite rear-rear wheel damage, as team-mate Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky starred.

With the FIA World Rallycross Championship unable to race at Mettet as investigations continue into the cause of the destructive fire at Lydden Hill two weeks ago, Johan Kristoffersson and fellow World RX drivers Timmy Hansen, Kevin Hansen and Ole Christian Veiby took the opportunity to join the RX2e grid.

It was the younger of the Hansen brothers, Kevin, who initially set the pace on Saturday, but in characteristic fashion, it did not take Kristoffersson long to unlock the pace, with three consecutive heat wins he was propelled to the summit of the overall standings.

A slow start in semi-final one dropped the Swede to third, but he was handed a lifeline when the race was red-flagged following a huge roll for team-mate Veiby.

"I couldn't see a thing. When I turned on the wipers, it got worse," Veiby said. "But things happen when conditions are as tricky as we had here."

Kristoffersson leading the pack with a bent right rear. 
PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

The five-time world champion grabbed the opportunity, and from that point on was never beaten. He managed rear suspension damage from first-corner contact in the final to fend off his closest pursuers to the chequered flag.

"What a weekend!" Kristoffersson said. "In terms of pace, it was maybe our best so far this year. I’d tested the RX2e car before, but it’s very different in a competitive race situation and the final wasn’t easy at all."

"After the hit into Turn One, I could feel something was broken at the rear. The car was all over the place, and I was just trying to hold onto it and not spin in a straight line! I managed to figure out how I needed to drive and could keep up a reasonable pace, and I was obviously very happy to walk away with the win. That was the perfect outcome."

"I have learnt a lot so it was absolutely the right decision to come here. I always want to race and this time the big thing was to compete against the Hansen brothers in equal cars. It was tricky starting from the inside with the water running down there. I was lucky in the final that Timmy had some wheel spin," he concluded. 

Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky on the other hand has set up a grandstand season finale with a superb drive to second place – which sees her close to just two points shy of team-mate Nils Andersson in the chase for the RX2e title.

"[I'm] extremely happy with this race weekend, the pace, and the work with the team. The goal was to find a good rhythm and enjoy driving, which I definitely did this weekend," Åhlin-Kottulinsky said.  

And, whilst it's joy and elation for some, there is disappointment for others, Ole Henry Steinsholt finished ahead of Mikaela on-the-road, but was later handed a 12-second penalty for "repeated side to side contact". 

Timmy Hansen was running second until the front suspension collapsed sending him into the tyre barrier on the last lap, whilst younger brother Kevin's bid ended in the semi-final stages.

The FIA World Rallycross Championship is scheduled to return to action at Estering, Germany for the sixth round later this month [August 19-20] if and when the green light is given following the ongoing investigations.  

PREVIEW: 'The show must go on', as RX1e elite stars join RX2e field in Belgium.

PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

Five-time World Rallycross Champion Johan Kristoffersson along with the Hansen brothers' headline the penultimate round of the RX2e field in Mettet, Belgium this weekend.

The Organizers of World RX of Benelux, confirmed earlier this weekend that the RX1e round has been canceled as investigations into the cause of a fire at Lydden Hill, United Kingdom on 21 July continue, whilst RX2e and Euro RX will go ahead as scheduled. 

This means there will be added competition in Mettet for RX2e championship frontrunners with Johan Kristofferson, Ole-Christian Veiby, and Kevin and Timmy Hansen all confirming their RX2e entries for Benelux on Sunday. 

"I'm really looking forward to this, but It's not going to be easy to adjust to RX2e," Kristoffersson said. "Mainly there is a lot less effect. I have tried this car twice, but of course, there is a lot to learn about it."

Five-time World RX champion Kristoffersson currently tops the overall standings while his Kristoffersson Motorsport team-mate Veiby lies in fourth overall, squeezed between the Hansen brothers with Kevin in third and Timmy in fifth.

Hansen World RX Team boss Kenneth Hansen stressed the importance to race in Mettet, saying: “We are a race team and we like to race and give the fans the best possible show they can get. That is why we want to be there and to compete in RX2e. That is a big challenge. They are fast guys and girls there. It will be interesting, hopefully, we can put on a good show together.”

His words were echoed by those of Volkswagen Dealerteam Bauhaus boss Tommy Kristoffersson: "The show must go on! We are responsible towards our sponsors, media, and not least our fans. We started to look for alternatives right away. This will bring a new dimension, a great challenge for the team. We are very positive about this and want to put on a great show in a competitive championship."

Waving the home flag among the expanded field is current joint RX2e leader Viktor Vranckx. He shares the top spot with Sweden’s Nils Andersson while another Swede, Isak Sjökvist, is one point behind.

A new addition to the field is none-other than 2016 Australian Rally and Extreme E champion Molly Taylor who has made the transition to rallycross, and she will line up for Hansen Motorsport’s #YellowSquad at this weekend's World RX Benelux, and the World RX of Germany, Estering later this month. 

"RX2e is the ideal place to begin learning Rallycross with electric cars, combined with the opportunity to be part of the #YellowSquad team and learn from some of the best in the business," Taylor said.

The CE Dealer Team will not travel to Mettet, instead, they will focus on an even bigger presence at Estering in Germany.

"We are of course sad to see the Mettet event being canceled [for RX1e], meaning that we cannot meet the wonderful Belgian fans and partners to the team. We do however understand and support the decision behind it, as it's important for the investigation of the incident at Lydden Hill to be thoroughly investigated so that the necessary actions can be taken for safe and exciting World RX racing," Jussi Pinomäki, Team Manager of CE Dealer Team, said.

THE TRACK: METTET [BELGIUM]

THE TRACK INFORMATION:

The short and twisty Circuit Jules Tacheny at Mettet is the modern expression of a racing history that stretches right back to the beginning days of the sport in Belgium. Like its contemporaries at Spa and Chimay, the Mettet circuit began with racing organized on public roads and soon became a popular venue for motorcycle racing. 

Right through to the 2000s racing continued on roads to the south of the town before safety concerns finally led to the construction of a permanent circuit.

Today, the permanent track hosts of range of different categories on both two and four-wheels, with facilities for Super Moto and Rallycross alongside circuit racing.

2023 FIA WORLD RX OF BENELUX: RX2e ENTRY LIST

Round 5 - World RX of Benelux (CAT Times)

SUNDAY:

STUDIO SHOW: 10:30

RX2e HEAT 3: 10:40

EURO RX1 HEAT 3: 11:04

RX2e HEAT 4: 13:25

EURO RX1 HEAT 4: 13:49

RX2e SEMI-FINAL: 14:50

SEMI-FINALS AND FINAL [EURO RX SEMI-FINALS & RX2e FINAL]: (from) 16:00

GRID WRAP-UP SHOW: 17:00 [RX+ only]

2023 FIA WORLD RALLYCROSS - CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS [AFTER ROUND 5]:

1) Johan Kristoffersson (Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS) - 69 POINTS

2) Niclas Gronholm (CE Dealer Team) - 42

3) Kevin Hansen (Hansen World RX Team) - 38

4) Ole Christian Veiby (Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS) - 35

5) Timmy Hansen (Hansen World RX Team) - 33

6) Timo Scheider (ALL-INLK Munnich Motorsport) - 31

7) Klara Andersson (CE Dealer Team) - 30

8) Sebastien Loeb (Special ONE Racing) - 29

9) Guerlain Chicherit (Special ONE Racing) - 27

10) Gustav Bergstrom (Kristoffersson Motorsport) - 20

“We will learn from this” after devastating fire destroys Lancia Delta's and equipment.

PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

Lydden Hill - ‘the birthplace of rallycross’ saw the FIA World Rallycross Championship return after six long years. With excitement at a fever pitch, disaster unfortunately, struck at 8:43am on Friday morning, as a fire engulfed the Special ONE Racing service area. Fortunately, no one was injured. However, the team’s two cars, workshop trucks, and awnings were completely destroyed. 

Guerlain Chicherit going wheel-to-wheel on the Lancia's debut. 
PHOTO CREDIT: GCK Motorsport

WHERE IT BEGAN: On 23 November 2021, four-time World Freeriding Champion-turned-rally, rallycross, and stunt driver Guerlain Chicherit had the vision of reviving an iconic sports car, the Lancia Delta Integrale, which became a reality when he rolled out the first fully electric version at the final round of the 2022 World RX championship in Germany.

In its maiden outing, the Frenchman got off to a good start but was nudged into a concrete barrier. The damage meant his running on Day One was rather limited, and needed some overnight repairs. Whilst he couldn't compete for a podium in Germany. The team and car won the hearts of millions!

With unfinished business and clear goals for victories, Chicherit formed a new team – Special ONE Racing, and brought nine-time World Rally Champion Sebastien Loeb on board to race the team’s second car. 

The French squad immediately showed promise making the finals with Loeb in round 1, but in order to go a step further Chicherit admitted that they needed to unlock a bit more speed. 

Having appeared in the final on three occasions this season, Special ONE Racing had their eyes firmly set on a podium finish at the British round of the championship, but sadly, it was not to be. 

“A fire broke out on Sébastien Loeb’s car. The fire quickly spread to Guerlain Chicherit's car and then to one of the team's two workshop trucks. None of the three vehicles could be saved from the flames despite the intervention of the fire brigade,” the Special ONE Racing statement said.

PHOTO CREDIT: _rallycross_ [Instagram]

“Watching our cars go up in smoke was a particularly painful moment for me and for the whole team, who had been investing so much love and energy in this programme for months,” Guerlain Chicherit said. “Aside from the material losses, I would like to point out that there were no injuries among the staff, who were very professional.”

A stewards document released on Saturday evening explained that the fire broke out at 8.43am on Friday morning, with “video evidence showing that the fire was initiated at the battery of the car while it was in the team area charging, but it is not clear why this happened. It was evident that only extremely quick thinking by the team members saved them from injury.”

The FIA immediately launched an “urgent investigation into the root cause of the incident with the cooperation of the Kent Fire service, the Lydden Hill track staff, and the championship promoter”, while battery supplier Kreisel will provide technical assistance. 

The World Rallycross Championship organizers then announced that “the investigation has not progressed far enough to determine a root cause for the fire”, and therefore “permanently stop round four of the RX1e championship for safety reasons.”

All the teams were kept informed about the progress of the investigation and fully supported the cancellation of the United Kingdom race [round 4]. 

CE Dealer Team’s Jussi Pinomäki said: “Safety is, and has always been, the number one priority and we fully support the decision of the FIA to halt the World RX race weekend in the UK for a thorough investigation to be completed.”

Whilst 14-time European Rallycross Champion Kenneth Hansen adding that: “We need to learn from what has happened and benefit from it.”

“We are sad not to have been racing this weekend, but we don’t want to risk anything. I think we can come stronger from this – not just us but the whole championship,” he said.

Having lost a large portion of its equipment and cars, Special ONE Racing made the heartbreaking announcement that “without its two cars and a large part of its equipment they will not be able to enter in the last four rounds of the 2023 FIA World Rallycross Championship season.”

“Our thoughts go out to the team who have lost their two racing cars and all other equipment. We know each other well and have good cooperation between the teams. Everyone knows how much time, money, and work has gone into producing the cars,” Tommy Kristoffersson, team principal of the Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS, said. 

“It is clear that it will be discussed, but it must be remembered that it is the first time an accident of this kind has occurred. Accidents and incidents have occurred in all types of series. Motorsport always involves a measure of risk,” he added. “Motorsport has always been a driving force in the development of the automotive industry. We compete under extreme conditions with extreme types of materials and all mistakes and errors are carefully analyzed. Let's hope that something good comes out of this in the end as well.”

The next event in the FIA World Rallycross Championship is set to take place in Mettet, Belgium in two weeks. At the point of publishing this article, there have been no updates regarding the investigation. The current intention of all teams and the organizers is for the event to go ahead as planned unless otherwise communicated. 

PREVIEW: World RX returns to the 'birthplace of rallycross' Lydden Hill after a six-year hiatus.

PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

Lydden Hill – the legendary ‘Birthplace of Rallycross’ – is ready to welcome World RX for the first time in six years this weekend.

Tucked away in the ‘Garden of England’, Lydden Hill was featured on the World RX calendar from 2014 to 2017. During that period, some of the biggest heroes in the sport – Petter Solberg, Mattias Ekström, and Andreas Bakkerud – triumphed at the track.

Now, somebody else is poised to add their name to that illustrious list, as the championship’s latest-generation, all-electric beasts are let off the leash in Britain for the very first time.

Reigning Champion Johan Kristoffersson will lead the charge, as he seeks to further cement himself in history with a sixth career crown. 

Three from three so far in 2023, the Super Swede has not offered his rivals so much as a crumb for comfort, and he arrives on British shores holding a 27-point margin over his closest pursuer at the summit of the standings. 

Speaking ahead of the World RX of Lydden Hill, Kristoffersson is eager to point out: "Lydden is one of few tracks where I haven't won yet."

The five-time champion adds that: "Me and Ole Christian are pushing each other to become better drivers. The combination is like with Petter and me at PSRX in 2017 and 2018. Ole also has the experience from rally to bring into the team." 

Timmy Hansen – the driver who has pushed Kristofferson hardest over the past few years – will hope for stronger results in the United Kingdom, after claiming his first podium finish of the campaign at Höljes earlier this month. 

Younger brother Kevin, meanwhile, has a particular affinity with Lydden Hill, having participated in his first proper rallycross test at the circuit in a Suzuki Swift at the age of 13.

“It’s the home of rallycross and personally, I’ve had a lot of great memories there,” Kevin said. “I essentially began my rallycross career at the track and won there in both Swifts and RX Lites, so for me, it’s great to be back.”

Since Hansen last raced at Lydden, a fair bit has changed, of course. Turn One is now banked and considerably wider than it used to be – encouraging more side-by-side battles and overtakes – and incorporates a jump on the exit, just after the merge with the all-new joker.

Three drivers with more recent experience of the circuit than most are CE Dealer Team duo Niclas Grönholm and Klara Andersson, as well as Kristoffersson’s team-mate, Ole Christian Veiby. Andersson won on her debut there in an RX150 buggy in April as part of the British Rallycross Championship curtain-raiser.

"[Lydden Hill] is an iconic track that I was lucky enough to try earlier this year with a cross-car race that I won. With good memories from the track, it will be exciting to race on such an iconic track with our all-electric PWR RX1e. I am looking forward to continuing working hard with the team, and fight for important points in the championship," Klara Andersson said.

Andersson's stablemate, and second in the championship, Niclas Grönholm reacclimatised himself with the track last year.

"It will be nice to go back to Lydden Hill after a long break from the World RX. The track has undergone some construction since its last outing in the championship, and I was lucky to drive there last year," the Finn said. "I feel that the track is now even better than before. It is time to make a proper comeback after the eventful race in Sweden, and I am looking forward to go racing again."

Ole Christian Veiby has also previously raced at Lydden Hill, and admits that the track is: "technically it's an easier track than Höljes for example, so I expect more tight racing in this round."

The Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS driver believes that he has an advantage over Kristoffersson, and targets a superpole win. "Now is the time to beat Johan in the superpole. Since Årjäng, I have a psychological advantage over him," he said.

Nine times an FIA World Rally Champion, Sebastien Loeb is back in action in World RX this season for the first time since 2018 – and the car he is driving, the Lancia Delta Evo-e RX, pays homage to one of the most iconic machines in WRC history.

Loeb is joined at Special ONE Racing by team-mate and compatriot Guerlain Chicherit, while for all his wealth of experience in the sport, double DTM Champion Timo Scheider (ALL-INKL.COM Münnich Motorsport) has never previously competed at Lydden.

Finally, a new addition to the field by the name of Sondre Evjen who will replace Gustav Bergström at Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS this weekend. The highly-rated Norwegian was an event-winner in the FIA European Rallycross Championship’s top-tier Euro RX1 last year.

"This is going to be great fun," he said. "I have long wanted to drive one of these electric World RX cars. I have spoken to Johan and he says it's a great fun car to drive."

THE TRACK: LYDDEN HILL

THE TRACK INFORMATION:

Lydden Hill, situated in Kent, England is the birthplace of Rallycross hosting the first ever Rallycross event in 1967, with Vic Elford taking the honours in a Porsche 911. Lydden Hill now traditionally hosts 2 rounds of the British Rallycross Championship along with the UK round of the GRC Rallycross Europe.

The track has undergone significant developments since World RX last raced at the venue, including changes to the track.

The re-profiled opening corner has increased overtaking opportunities in events run on the revised layout so far, while the large jump in the first half of the lap has added a third dimension to the challenge for drivers, and a spectacular sight for the fans.

2023 FIA WORLD RX OF UNITED KINGDOM: ENTRY LIST

Johan Kristoffersson (Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS) - VW Polo RX1e

Sebastien Loeb (Special ONE Racing) - Lancia Delta Evo-e RX

Timmy Hansen (Hansen World RX Team) - Peugeot 208 RX1e

Niclas Gronholm (CE Dealer Team) - PWR RX1e

Kevin Hansen (Hansen World RX Team) - Peugeot 208 RX1e

Guerlain Chicherit (Special ONE Racing) - Lancia Delta Evo-e RX

Ole Christian Veiby (Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS) - VW Polo RX1e

Sondre Evjen (Kristoffersson Motorsport) - VW Polo RX1e

Klara Andersson (CE Dealer Team) - PWR RX1e

Timo Scheider (ALL-INLK Munnich Motorsport) SEAT Ibiza RX1e

Round 4 - World RX of United Kingdom (CAT Times)

SATURDAY:

PRACTICE: 12:05

SUPERPOLE: 13:05

HEAT 1: 15:40

HEAT 2: 17:40

SUNDAY:

WARM-UP: 11:30

HEAT 3: 12:10

HEAT 4: 13:50

SEMI-FINALS AND FINAL: (from) 16:00

GRID WRAP-UP SHOW: 17:00 [RX+ only]

2023 FIA WORLD RALLYCROSS - CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS [AFTER ROUND 3]:

1) Johan Kristoffersson (Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS) - 69 POINTS

2) Niclas Gronholm (CE Dealer Team) - 42

3) Kevin Hansen (Hansen World RX Team) - 38

4) Ole Christian Veiby (Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS) - 35

5) Timmy Hansen (Hansen World RX Team) - 33

6) Timo Scheider (ALL-INLK Munnich Motorsport) - 31

7) Klara Andersson (CE Dealer Team) - 30

8) Sebastien Loeb (Special ONE Racing) - 29

9) Guerlain Chicherit (Special ONE Racing) - 27

10) Gustav Bergstrom (Kristoffersson Motorsport) - 20

Kristoffersson conquers 'Magic Weekend' with third consecutive win.

Kristoffersson leads the field in wet/muddy conditions.
PHOTO CREDIT: Red Bull Content Pool

Defending FIA World Rallycross Champion Johan Kristoffersson showcased his exceptional skills once again as he claimed an emphatic victory at the World RX of Sweden in Höljes last weekend, marking his third consecutive win. 

The Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS driver's dominant performance, saw him set the fastest lap, win all four heats, his semi-final, and the all-important final to extend his lead in the championship by 27 points, making him a strong contender for a sixth-world title. 

"It's never easy and this weekend there were super difficult conditions, but it turned out to be the almost perfect weekend for me," he said. "I think this track might be the trickiest one to drive in the wet, but it’s also very rewarding when you get it right and we had great pace and good starts throughout, which was key. It’s always nice to win, of course, but to do so in Sweden in front of such a big crowd and with my family here is extra special."

The reigning champion credits his team for providing him with a fantastic car: "A big thanks to the team for a fantastic car that is easy to adapt to various conditions."

Kristoffersson took the chequered flag more than four seconds clear of closest pursuer Timmy Hansen. The 2019 world champion bounced back after a string of disappointing results in the opening two rounds at Montalegre and Hell to secure his first trophy of the season, getting the better of Ole Christian Veiby in the final to seal the runner-up spoils for Hansen World RX Team.

"So we’re doing everything we can to be winning again too. Johan [Kristoffersson] had another incredible weekend - when it started to rain today he just checked out. The battle for second though was super tight and Ole Christian [Veiby] just made a tiny error and I went on the inside. It just shows how small the margins are," Timmy Hansen said. "For the team, it’s fantastic to be back on the podium, especially considering they had to rebuild the car after the first two races. This reward is for them, and it feels like now I have started my championship."

Veiby completed the podium in third, pleased with his performance but ruing a couple of late mistakes. 

"I think we have deserved more from the first two races so it's super nice to be back on the podium. I had a great launch in the final and came out as second, but made a little mistake to let Timmy pass," Ole Christian said. "I was 0,1 seconds behind Johan in superpole last time, and 0,07 here in Höljes. Next time maybe..."

Following a difficult start to the weekend with an error in the SuperPole session and an off-track excursion in heat one, Kevin Hansen wound up fourth, winning the second semi-final but losing time behind Timo Scheider in the final after running wide on the exit of the joker.

"In the dry we were improving a lot now that we have found something that’s more comfortable to drive. In the wet we made big steps also. It’s the first time we’ve used the latest software and car setup in the wet but I did a bad launch in the final, then the wipers and washers didn’t work correctly so I couldn’t properly see, and I made a mistake in the joker. The speed after that was great and I closed on P3 but needed another lap to be able to get on the podium," Kevin Hansen said.

Both Scheider and Guerlain Chicherit saw their efforts plagued by punctures. The German managed to reach the finish line in fifth for ALL-INKL.COM Münnich Motorsport, but in his first final appearance of the year,  Chicherit was forced to park his Special ONE Racing Lancia Delta Evo-E RX on the second lap.

"When I started 5th in my semi-final, I had to take all the risks. At the red light, I counted to three and then dropped everything... And miraculously, it worked!" the Frenchman said. "The euphoria of being in the final only lasted 500 metres. It's a shame because I had a good rhythm on this muddy track. We still need to work on gaining confidence in our car, which is fast but very sensitive."

Neither Niclas Grönholm nor Klara Andersson progressed to the final on a frustrating weekend for CE Dealer Team by Volvo Construction Equipment.

"We struggled from start to finish this weekend, not much to say really," the Finn said. "It is a weekend to quickly forget. I am looking forward to a few weeks off, to recharge and come back stronger next time."

Whilst, it might have been a frustrating result for the team, Andersson admits the potential is there: "A tough weekend with a lot of ups and downs. It was fantastic to win the first heat, and it felt like a really good start to the weekend. Today it was raining all day, which was new for me with this type of car. So, there was a lot of learning. In the semi, it felt like we got the setup right, but unfortunately, I got a puncture. The potential is there, and we take a lot of lessons and important points with us from this weekend."

Nine-time FIA World Rally Champion Sébastien Loeb was another driver to exit proceedings at the semi-final stage. The Frenchman admits that it's quite challenging driving the Lancia Delta Evo-E RX, as small mistakes will be punished. 

"I won a heat, which proves that we can be on the pace. Starting 3rd in my semi-final, I had a good chance of qualifying, but I made two small mistakes that cost me a place," he said. The car doesn't forgive mistakes and we need to find more confidence behind the wheel. We've learnt a few things this weekend."

KMS driver Gustav Bergström had a tough weekend, arriving on Sunday, having raced in Carrera Cup on Saturday, and with some technical issues in his first heat. 

"Of course, it was difficult with the power steering issues, but my pace was good and I had the best lap time in one of my heats," Bergström said. "I was absolutely blind into the first corner of the semifinal. I tried my best all the way to get past Sébastien Loeb but it wasn't to be." 

After three championship rounds, the FIA World Rallycross heads to the United Kingdom at the iconic Lydden Hill circuit for round four later this month (July 21-23).