The MOMO Radical Cup Scandinavia witnessed a thrilling and eventful race weekend at Gelleråsen Arena, marked by changing weather conditions and intense on-track battles. Stevan Petrovic and Erlend Olsen emerged as standout performers, each claiming significant victories and shaking up the championship standings.
Race 1: Olsen Triumphs in Torrential Rain
The weekend began under challenging conditions as a sudden downpour hit Gelleråsen Arena just before the start of Race 1. All teams quickly switched to wet tyres, and the race began with Johan Leander taking an early lead, displaying confidence in the rain. However, the treacherous conditions led to several incidents, including Torbjörn Hallenheim and Jesper Fristed sliding off the track, which prompted a safety car deployment.
Technical issues further shuffled the pack, with Leander, Stevan Petrovic, and Patrik Larsson all forced into the pits, disrupting their race strategies. Erlend Olsen capitalized on these misfortunes, taking the lead and maintaining his composure to secure victory. Ludvig Bäck finished a strong second, while championship leader Erik Stillman fought back to claim the final podium spot, salvaging valuable points.
Race 2: Petrovic Storms to Victory
Race 2 saw Stevan Petrovic deliver a commanding performance. Starting from P3, Petrovic swiftly moved into the lead by the first corner, overtaking pole sitter Johan Leander after a lockup sent Leander wide. Erlend Olsen, starting from P2, lost ground after being caught up in the incident, which allowed Jørn Martin Aalerud to slip into third.
Aalerud’s podium finish was a remarkable comeback after an off-track excursion in Race 1 required an overnight effort to repair his car. Olsen finished fourth, unable to recover the positions lost early on. Further back, Erik Stillman, Ludvig Bäck, Jesper Fristedt, and Gustav Emanuelsson engaged in a fierce battle, with Stillman narrowly holding on to fifth place.
Race 3: Tight racing as Petrovic Wins Again
The final race of the weekend took place under ideal racing conditions, with clear skies and temperatures at 25 degrees Celsius. Erlend Olsen started from pole position, with Johan Leander alongside him. Stevan Petrovic, starting from P3, executed a perfect start and quickly overtook Leander before setting his sights on Olsen.
Petrovic made a decisive move into Turn 6 to take the lead, which he held to the finish line, securing his second win of the weekend. Leander maintained his pace to finish third, while Aalerud continued his impressive form, crossing the line in fourth.
Mid-field, Gustav Emanuelsson managed to pass Erik Stillman after persistent pressure, with Jesper Fristed attempting the same but ultimately settling for eighth place. At the back of the field, Torbjörn Hallenheim, Marcus Idrén, and Patrik Larsson had a closely-fought contest, finishing within seconds of each other, with Hallenheim taking P10.
Championship Standings Update
The weekend’s results have significantly impacted the championship standings. Stevan Petrovic’s victories have propelled him to the top of the table, overtaking Erik Stillman. Erlend Juan Olsen, with consistent performances, climbs to third place, and also secured the highest points of the weekend with 81.
The championship battle intensifies as the series heads to Radical Sweden’s home race at Ljungbyheds Motorbana. Stay tuned for more action and updates at radicalcupscandinavia.com.
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