Timo Scheider Ends Kristoffersson’s Winning Streak in Sensational World RX Victory

In a stunning turn of events, Timo Scheider brought Johan Kristoffersson’s remarkable winning streak in the FIA World Rallycross Championship to a halt with a sensational performance at the Killarney International Raceway in South Africa on October 8th. Scheider’s maiden victory this season not only marked a historic moment but also ensured that the championship’s title fight will go down to the wire at the season finale in Hong Kong.

For the first time in World RX history, all competitors took to the track in equal machinery, eliminating the usual equipment advantage and putting the focus squarely on driving talent. From the very beginning, Timo Scheider, representing ALL-INKL.COM Münnich Motorsport, emerged as a formidable contender. After securing a third-place finish on Saturday, matching his previous best result for the 2023 campaign, Scheider’s determination shone as he overcame challenges to claim the top step of the podium on Sunday.

Scheider’s day began with adversity, as he faced rear motor failure that relegated him to the fifth-fastest time in the single-lap SuperPole shootout. Further misfortune struck with a puncture during heat one, dropping him from the lead. However, Scheider’s unwavering resolve saw him bounce back, topping the timesheets in heats two and three, catapulting him to the top of the intermediate standings and earning him pole position for the opening semi-final.

In a thrilling semi-final, Scheider narrowly edged out Kevin Hansen, securing his spot in the final. The German driver’s flawless performance continued in the final, where he executed a perfect start and skillfully fended off his challengers to clinch victory.

Reflecting on his historic win, Scheider shared, “It’s pretty difficult to describe this right now. I feel quite emotional. I’ve been chasing this win for some time; it hasn’t always been easy, but we’ve kept fighting and I always try to squeeze the most out of what I have.”

The level of competition in World RX is undeniably high, with Johan Kristoffersson often dominating the field. Scheider added, “I’m super-proud for both myself and the ALL-INKL.COM team – they put so much energy into this project and have kept believing in me. It’s quite overwhelming, to be honest.”

Scheider dedicated his victory to his late father and expressed his gratitude to the fans in Cape Town for their support.

With his South African triumph, Timo Scheider moved up to third place in the championship standings, a mere three points behind Kevin Hansen, who secured the runner-up position once again on Sunday. Kristoffersson, who admitted to a sluggish start in the final, had to settle for third place, delaying his quest for a sixth career crown.

Klara Andersson displayed an improved performance, crossing the finish line in fourth place, just ahead of 2019 world champion Timmy Hansen, who was awarded a penalty for contact, switching their positions. Niclas Grönholm, the winner in South Africa four years ago, finished in sixth place.

The 2023 World RX season will conclude with the championship’s first-ever city centre event in Hong Kong on November 11-12, promising a thrilling conclusion to a fiercely competitive season.

FINAL RESULT: WORLD RX

1. Timo SCHEIDER (DEU) ALL-INKL.COM Münnich Motorsport – 5 laps

2. Kevin HANSEN (SWE) Hansen World RX Team + 1.021s

3. Johan KRISTOFFERSSON (SWE) Volkswagen Dealerteam BAUHAUS + 1.344s

4. Timmy HANSEN (SWE) Hansen World RX Team + 6.656s

5. Klara ANDERSSON (SWE) CE Dealer Team + 6.175s *

6. Niclas GRÖNHOLM (FIN) CE Dealer Team + 8.532s

(One-place penalty)

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