The RallyX season roared into life at the iconic Eurocircuit Valkenswaard, where bright sunshine and a packed weekend of racing delivered an electrifying opening round. Across two action-filled race days, multiple classes produced fierce battles, breakout performances, and early championship statements.
Race Day 1: Eriksson Edges Thriller, Vitols Dominates
The FC2 category set the tone for the weekend with a nail-biting final. Oliver Eriksson converted his qualifying form into victory, but not without pressure. A relentless challenge from Niclas Grönholm kept fans on edge, with just 0.603 seconds separating the pair at the flag. Lukas Andersson secured third, while rookie Emil Naessen impressed with a strong P4 finish on debut.
In 4WD ProAm, Bart Bel made an immediate impact, taking victory in his first outing with a Ford Focus. He narrowly edged out Tobias Daarbak, with Adam Ohman completing the podium.
Supercar Lite belonged entirely to Roberts Vitols. The Latvian driver dominated from start to finish, underlining his authority with the fastest lap in the final to seal a commanding win.
In Open 2WD, reigning champion Viktor Johansson began his title defence in style, taking victory ahead of top qualifier Yorick Maeyninckx, who had to settle for second. Kristof Bex rounded out the podium.
Race Day 2: Andersson Strikes Back, Vitols Goes Back-to-Back
Day two saw the momentum shift in FC2 as Lukas Andersson delivered a statement drive. Qualifying fourth, he stormed through his semi-final before dominating the final, finishing more than five seconds clear of Oliver Eriksson to showcase his full potential.
The 4WD ProAm class produced another fresh winner, with Romet Tsirna claiming victory in just his second race in an FC2 car. The top qualifier controlled proceedings ahead of Mervin Klassen and Adam Ohman. Notably, both Emil Naessen and Danny Luyten qualified for the final but did not take the start.
Supercar Lite once again fell to the unstoppable Roberts Vitols, who completed a perfect weekend with a second victory. Winning by 3.920 seconds and again setting the fastest lap, Vitols left Alexander Lindqvist and Mads Larsen trailing in his wake. The race also saw drama, as Nathan Ottink was disqualified for unsporting behaviour following contact with Kevin Daarbak.
In Open 2WD, Kristof Bex turned the tables to take victory ahead of Viktor Johansson and Ariane Vanlommel. Johansson’s result was particularly remarkable, as his team rebuilt the car following a heavy qualifying crash—allowing him to fight back through the semi-finals and secure a podium finish.
A Statement Start to the Season
The Valkenswaard opener delivered everything expected of RallyX—tight margins, rising stars, and dominant performances. With early momentum established by drivers like Eriksson, Andersson, and the standout Vitols, the stage is set for an intense and unpredictable season ahead.
Photos © Niklas Husmann
