Mattias Ekström returns to Sweden

World champion in 2016 with his Audi S1 ​​of its EKS RX structure, the Swede Mattias Ekstrom had abandoned the World Championship of Rallycross World RX after 2018 to focus on the destiny of his team, which has since passed rally, while serving as development driver of the electric Cupra for touring events.

However, we will find the double champion DTM this weekend in World RX, sinceEkström will compete in Höljes in Sweden in an Audi S1 ​​from the KYB Team JC team. alongside Robin Larsson. An opportunity that emerged due to Janis Baumanis' difficulties in completing a full program due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“As we have a vacant car in Höljes, I contacted Mattias who has already been invited to the team twice, recalls Joel Christoffersson, Team Principal of the JC structure. Just like me, he thought it would be a lot of fun to drive in Holjes. Mattias will be an important addition for KYB Team JC.

He is a driver who knows many things and especially these cars. This will certainly be an advantage for Robin Larsson. It is of course sad that Janis Baumanis will not drive for a full season. But given the whole situation around COVID-19, I think everyone understands that something like this can happen and I hope we can work with him again in the future. »

“My priority this weekend will be to have as much fun as possible, underlines Ekström for his part. But of course, the day I don't dream of winning is the day I stop racing. The goal is always to aim for a trophy, but we will see what is realistic depending on the conditions. »

The Swede won twice on his home soil in 2014 and 2015. Höljes will host two events this weekend, one on Saturday, the other on Sunday.