The annual FIA Off-Road Prize-Giving gala brought
the stars of the 2023 international rallycross campaign back together in Prague
last weekend (3 February).
In a glittering ceremony, held at the headquarters
of the Autoklub České republiky, nine of the dual-surface discipline’s biggest
names took to the stage to collect their awards for their success last year.
Representing the FIA World Rallycross
Championship were Johan Kristoffersson – who lifted the laurels for an incredible
sixth time in Hong Kong last November – and countryman Kevin Hansen, who
finished a career-high second in the standings.
“It was a special season and I was very proud
to win,” reflected Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS star Kristoffersson. “Now, I’m
looking forward to seeing what the future brings for rallycross.”
The FIA RX2e Championship toasted an
all-Swedish top three, with champion Nils Andersson flanked by runner-up Isak
Sjökvist and Team E stablemate Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, while Anton Marklund –
who sped to his fourth European crown in 2023 – was joined in Prague by young
gun Patrick O’Donovan, with whom he enjoyed many an entertaining battle over
the course of the Euro RX1 campaign.
“We clearly need to gather some more
nationalities in RX2e!” quipped Andersson. “Seriously, though, it was great fun
racing with Mikaela and Isak, and while it’s still quite early in the year, I’m
definitely looking to defend my title.”
Euro RX3 team-mates Damian Litwinowicz and Espen
Isaksætre were able to reminisce about their tense duel for honours that culminated
in a dramatic clash in the very last race of the season at Germany’s Estering.
Niclas Grönholm, Jānis Baumanis and Nils
Volland were unfortunately unable to attend the prize-giving due to prior
commitments but were nonetheless celebrated in their absence, while Finnskoga
MK picked up the trophy for ‘Organiser of the Year’ for Höljes’ legendary ‘Magic
Weekend’.
Finland
Italy
Hungary