CE Dealer Team eager to quickly ‘bounce back’ from tough Belgian weekend

Niclas Grönholm and Klara Andersson travelled to Belgium for World RX of Benelux around the Circuit Jules Tacheny tied for third spot in the Drivers’ standings, but they left having slipped to fifth and sixth – and with significant work to do if they are to keep their title hopes alive.

Grönholm bore the brunt of the team’s ill-fortune at Mettet. Technical issues on the opening day hampered the Finn in both of his heat races, and while he qualified for the final – aided by an engine problem for the impressive Anthony Pelfrene – he was subsequently withdrawn to allow Andersson to take his place.

The Kauniainen native enjoyed a more successful Sunday, achieving a maximum score in the heats – with Andersson backing out of a last lap challenge in heat two to protect him – and comfortably winning his semi-final. Grönholm then completed his weekend’s work with a fourth-place finish – less than three tenths-of-a-second adrift of the rostrum and two places ahead of his team-mate, as both CE Dealer Team cars progressed to the final for the first time in 2024.

“I want to thank the team for fixing my car so I could race on Sunday – we worked hard together as always,” the 28-year-old reflected. “I had a strong start in the final, but the first turn was chaotic and I got hit.

“It’s frustrating because we know we had the speed to achieve a better result, but that's rallycross for you. We just need to keep working hard and come back stronger in Portugal. We all know we have the package to keep in the world title fight, and that’s what we are here for.”

“We prepared well and gave it our best, but ended up with almost nothing in return,” added Team Manager, Jussi Pinomäki. “Niclas faced some issues with his car on Saturday, but once they were resolved, he showed his pace on Sunday.

“We need to move on and come back stronger next time. Portugal is a track that suits us and the drivers, and we’ll aim to bounce back – continuing our quest to showcase sustainable, inclusive and thrilling motorsport.”