The force of Petter strikes back
News release
16.10.16
The force of Petter strikes back
Reigning FIA World Rallycross Champion Petter Solberg turned in a brilliant fight-back weekend to finish World RX of Germany second, ending a tough run for the Norwegian superstar.
Despite his trademark 110 per cent approach Solberg hasn’t been on the podium much recently, making today’s second a very welcome result for him and the PSRX team.
Solberg, a three-time FIA World Champion, said: “We have waited so long this season to be back on the podium and to make it here after the disappointment in Latvia two weeks ago is unbelievable. That race was our worst result ever and one I never want to repeat.
“It is so important for me to thank my amazing team for our win this weekend. I may be the guy driving the car, but the car was so fast this weekend, I think one of the fastest on the track.
“I can only say thank you for all the hours they have spent in the last two weeks, making small changes which could make a difference for us. They have worked so systematically; second here is a great win for the whole PSRX team.
“I would like to congratulate Mattias Ekström for winning the 2016 World RX championship. Well done to Mattias and his team. They have been consistent all season. I would also like to congratulate Kevin Eriksson, who had an amazing weekend here and a spectacular final today. I saw his move out of the corner of my eye and it was just spectacular. I was pushed from behind and got turned around, but when I straightened up, I saw him go round everyone and take the lead! He has been extremely impressive this weekend and one to watch next season.”
The PSRX race weekend
Q1 – 12th (position in the standings after qualifying races)
Starting fifth in wet conditions, Petter was able to fight his way up to third in the first corner. Then stayed behind Loeb and Hansen for the whole race playing it safe to the finish.
Q2 – 7th
Second on the line and drier conditions, Petter was fastest into the first corner. From there he controlled the race and set the third fastest time in the heat and of the first day.
Q3 – 3rd
Petter was quickest by far from third off the line. On the attack, Petter never looked back and controlled a comfortable lead. For the first time ever at Estering a joker lap (Petter’s) was the fastest overall in a qualifying heat – by an incredible 0.8 seconds!
Q4 – 1st
From pole, Petter defended himself through the first corner then pulled away from the pack. He crossed the line 3.3 seconds ahead of everybody – that’s a knock-out in rallycross!
Semi-final – 1st
From P1 Petter lead from the start to finish and had a perfect race.
Final – 2nd
Petter was pushed in the first corner and things got a bit messy. The champ soon had it all under control again, but Eriksson took the advantage and drove around all of the cars to take the lead and the race.
Result:
1 Kevin Eriksson 3m51.944s
2 Petter Solberg 3m52.530s
3 Andreas Bakkerud 3m54.365s
4 Kevin Hansen 3m54.905s
5 Mattias Ekström 3m55.290s
6 Johan Kristoffersson 4m13.906s
Drivers’ championship positions:
1 Ekström 251pts
2 Solberg 221pts
3 Kristoffersson 217pts
4 Bakkerud 210pts
5 Sébastien Loeb 194pts
6 Timmy Hansen 174pts
Next time out World RX of Argentina (November 25-27)
You never forget where you are when you win a world championship… that’s why this place holds some great memories for Petter. This place is crazy for motorsport and the fans are so passionate. It’s always a big pleasure to come to Argentina and race.
Want to know more about your FIA World Rallycross Champion?
Per-Espen Lochen PR/Media Manager
+46 76 110 7 110
+47 952 43 245
@Petter_Solberg
www.facebook.com/PetterSolbergWRC
Produced in association with Words PR
