Equal machinery could ‘change things up’ predicts Andersson

Klara Andersson believes the switch to ZEROID X1 machinery for the forthcoming FIA World Rallycross Championship events in Cape Town and Hong Kong has the potential to upset the pecking-order and ‘change things up’ in the chase for the coveted crown.

Rising Swedish star Andersson is in the midst of her second campaign in World RX, and the CE Dealer Team by Volvo Construction Equipment driver arrives in Cape Town for this weekend’s South African double-header (7-8 August) sitting seventh in the championship standings – albeit just 12 points shy of stablemate Niclas Grönholm in second.

While the 23-year-old has never been to the ‘Rainbow Nation’ before, she is hoping that her prior experience of the all-electric ZEROID X1 – from a brace of outings in the FIA RX2e Championship in 2021 and a further appearance in Germany seven weeks ago – will pay dividends and allow her to challenge for a second career podium at the international pinnacle of the sport.

“It’s great to be back in action in World RX again,” Andersson enthused. “It will be my first time racing in South Africa. The track looks fun, and it’s one of the venues I’m looking forward to the most this year. It’s also exciting when everyone has the same material – it can change things up in the championship. We will try to have a solid weekend, collect as many points as possible and give our fans and partners a good show.”

The Löberöd native could do worse than to ask team-mate Grönholm for some tips. Although the result was overshadowed by the dramatic world championship fight, the flying Finn sped to his second career victory at Killarney International Raceway the last time World RX visited South Africa four years ago.

“I have some really good memories from winning in Cape Town back in 2019,” Grönholm reflected. “This time we are in different cars, and everyone should have similar equipment. It’s good that we get to race and keep the championship going – I’m really looking forward to the weekend.”

“It’s a fantastic feeling for us all to be back racing this weekend,” echoed Team Manager, Jussi Pinomäki. “As everyone in the championship will race in equal machinery, the competition will no doubt be even tougher in South Africa and Hong Kong, but we have a strong turnout and support from our partners in South Africa and we will as always try to secure the best results possible.”

Tickets for World RX of South Africa are available to buy here in advance or on the gate.