In Catalunya two years ago, the pair made
contact into the first corner, sending Hansen way out wide into the run-off area
and resulting in a post-race penalty for Kristoffersson.
At Nyirád, of course, there is no such run-off,
and when the two Swedes clashed again at the beginning of Saturday’s final at
the ‘Red Cauldron’, both of their cars ended up in the barriers. Kristoffersson
rejoined but thereafter limped around with damaged suspension, while Hansen was
out on the spot.
The Hansen World RX Team star made clear his displeasure
by gesturing towards his countryman from the side of the track, and he similarly
pulled no punches when interviewed after the race.
“I’m just disappointed that someone who claims
to be a six-time world champion can’t race with respect,” Hansen said. “That’s
where we stand. My front wheel was clearly ahead of his rear wheel, but there
was no respect for the rules from Johan, so I had to let go or he would have
squeezed me into a concrete wall at high speed. You can only imagine how that
would feel. I was mature and let go, but it’s not sporting. If he’s going to do
that to me, he will come with me...”
Kristoffersson agreed to disagree.
“I think the picture speaks for itself,” countered
the KMS – HORSE Powertrain ace. “It’s one of those – not really [a racing
incident], but it happens. I think when you’re desperate for a result when you
haven’t had one for a long time, of course you would like to take a win. I
fully understand, but that’s how it is.”
Following a stewards’ inquiry, both drivers were
subsequently penalised – Kristoffersson with a reprimand and Hansen with
disqualification from the final.
The action continues in Hungary today with
round four of the 2024 World RX campaign. All of the races will be broadcast
live on Rally.TV, from 09:30 CEST.
Greece
Poland
Portugal