Race & news - 2002
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F.I.A. EUROPEAN RALLYCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP - Overall standings
SWEDISH RALLYCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP - Overall standings
2002 F.I.A. EUROPEAN RALLYCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP
AND SWEDISH RALLYCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP
The FIA European Rallycross Championship 2002
| Pos | Name | Nat | P 19/5 |
F 26/5 |
A 9/6 |
CZ 16/6 |
S 7/7 |
B 11/8 |
NL 18/8 |
N 1/9 |
PL 22/9 |
D 29/9 |
TOTAL |
| 1 | Kenneth HANSEN Citroen Xsara |
S | 20 | 20 | (17) | 20 | 20 | 15 | 17 | 20 | 20 | (12) | 152 |
| 2 | Per EKLUND Saab 93 |
S | (12) | 13 | 20 | 13 | 13 | 20 | (10) | 15 | 12 | 20 | 126 |
| 3 | Pavel KOUTNY Ford Focus |
CZ | 17 | (0) | 12 | 17 | 9 | 7 | 11 | (0) | 17 | 13 | 103 |
| 4 | Lars LARSSON Audi A4 |
S | 15 | 17 | 15 | (11) | EX | 12 | 6 | (5) | 15 | 11 | 91 |
| 5 | Jos KUYPERS Ford Focus |
NL | 13 | (8) | 11 | 15 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 0 | 13 | (0) | 88 |
| 6 | Mikael JERNBERG Ford Focus |
S | - | 6 | 10 | 6 | 8 | 10 | (8) | 8 | 11 | 15 | 74 |
| 7 | Ludvig HUNSBEDT Ford Focus |
N | - | - | - | - | 17 | 13 | 15 | 17 | - | - | 62 |
| 8 | Jean-Luc PAILLER Peugeot 206 |
F | 11 | 12 | - | - | - | 17 | 20 | - | - | - | 60 |
| 9 | Marko JOKINEN Peugeot 206 |
SF | - | 7 | 7 | 9 | 3 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 8 | 41 | |
| 10 | Tamasz REVES ToyotaCorolla |
HU | - | - | 8 | 7 | - | 4 | 4 | - | 0 | 23 |
Swedish Rallycross Championship 2002
| Pos | Name | Nat | Arvika 11/5 |
Kalix 29/6 |
Jarbo 27/7 |
Gotene 14/9 |
TOTAL |
| 1 | Kenneth HANSEN Citroen Xsara |
S | 20 | 20 | 20 | 40 | 100 |
| 2 | Lars LARSSON Audi A4 |
S | 9 | 17 | 15 | 30 | 71 |
| 3 | Per EKLUND Saab 93 |
S | 10 | - | 17 | 34 | 61 |
| 4 | Ola STENVALL Hyundai Acc |
S | 13 | 11 | - | 26 | 50 |
| 5 | Eivind OPLAND Mitsubishi |
N | 17 | - | 12 | 20 | 49 |
| 6 | Morgan ANTONSSON Saab 93 |
S | 7 | 15 | 8 | 14 | 44 |
| 7 | Stig-Olov WALFRIDSSON Ford Focus |
S | 8 | - | 10 | 24 | 42 |
| 8 | Glenn VOIE Opel Astra |
N | 0 | 10 | 11 | 18 | 39 |
| 9 | Morten BERMINGRUD Citroen Xsara |
N | 12 | 13 | 13 | 0 | 38 |
| 10 | Ludvig HUNSBEDT Ford Focus |
N | 15 | 5 | - | 22 | 42 |
| 11 | Marko JOKINEN Peugeot 206 |
SF | 9 | 9 | 16 | 33 | |
| 12 | Michael JERNBERG Ford Focus |
S | 6 | 12 | 5 | 12 | 30 |
| 14 | Sverre ISACSEN Ford Focus |
N | 11 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 11 |
Kenneth Hansen won the Bilsport Award 2002 as the Rallycross driver of the Year.
The best season ever for Kenneth Hansen gave him the 10.th European Championship title and the 10:th Swedish Championship title. The already so successful year for Kenneth was crowned with the Bilsport Award 2002 - Rallycross driver of the Year.
At a price giving ceremony and dinner at the 40-year jubilee for the magazine "Bilsport" in their headquarter in Karlskrona, Sweden on Friday evening (Nov.22) several persons in 12 categories was awarded for their achievement and success in Swedish motor sport.
With the motive "With purposefulness, skill and a high level of ambition, once again has proved his exceptional position in Rallycross" Kenneth won the prestigious award.
- "Bilsport" is a well recognised magazine with great knowledge of motor sport. Therefore an award like this feels even more valuable as you know they have full control of who as achieved what and why, Kenneth says with pride.
Kenneth celebrated the Bilsport Award ceremony together with Mattias Ekstrom, Racing driver of the Year and Mats Jonsson "Rally driver of the Year".
For more information see www.bilsport.se
Photo: Joachim Cruus
Photo: Joachim Cruus Bilsport Magazine www.bilsport.se
September 29
Germany, Buxtehude. September 28-29 2002
Kenneth Hansen finished fifth in Germany
Kenneth Hansen ended a fantastic season with a fifth place in the last round of the European Championship in Germany. Now took instead Per Eklund the victory ahead of the Norwegian Sverre Isachsen and another Swede on third place, Mikael Jernberg.
The newly crowned European Champion, Kenneth Hansen, had problems already in the qualification rounds and started only on fourth position in the A-final. After a good start Kenneth finally saw an opportunity to win, when he side by side with Eklund entered the first corner.
– Either I could have backed off and pulled in behind Per or I could try to go on the outside and challenge for the lead, Kenneth says. I choose to go for the lead.
The brave move of Kenneth could have paid off if Eklund had not been hit from behind bouncing into the Citroën, which went off the track.
When Kenneth finally came back he was only fifth. Eklund survived the situation and took control of the lead, followed by Isachsen and Jernberg. Down on fourth place was the Czech Pavel Koutny, who was intensively chased by Hansen. Kenneth tried hard to overtake, but with their latest fight in Poland last weekend, the Czech kept cool and didn’t any mistake what so ever. Kenneth had to settle for fifth.
– My move was not successful, Kenneth explains. But I felt I wanted to try to win this last race.
Kenneth Hansen secured the FIA European Championship already in the last race with his 152 points. Per Eklund, with 126 points, ended on second place in the ERC. On third place came Pavel Koutny on 103.
Before rallycross takes its winter break Kenneth will go to the Croft Grand Prix in England on October 26-27.
Results from the European Rallycross Championship, Round 10. Germany, Buxtehude.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Per EKLUND | S | Saab 93 | 20 |
| 2 | Sverre ISACHSEN | N | Ford Focus | 17 |
| 3 | Mikael JERNBERG | S | Ford Focus | 15 |
| 4 | Pavel KOUTNY | CZ | Ford Focus | 13 |
| 5 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 12 |
| 6 | Lars LARSSON | S | Audi A4 | 11 |
Overall standings after 10 of 10 races.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 152 |
| 2 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 126 |
| 3 | Pavel Koutny | CZ | Ford Focus | 103 |
| 4 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 91 |
| 5 | Jos Kuypers | NL | Ford Focus | 88 |
September 22
ERC Round 9
Poland, Slomczyn. September 21-22 2002
Kenneth Hansen crowned his 10:th ERC-title with victory in Poland
Slomczyn,
Kenneth Hansen took his 10:th ERC-title in the best way possible. With victory in the Polish round of the European Rallycross Championship the new Champion once again proved his supreme ability this year.
– The feeling right now reminds me very much of the nice champagne that we will celebrate with soon, Kenneth says with a big happy smile. It just bubbles inside. Lovely, tickling, intoxicating! It feels just so fantastic!
Even if it should be hard to stop Hansen when he now was so close a new ERC-gold, he has felt the presence of pressure. He just wasn’t allowed to miss it now. Therefore it was with big relief Kenneth discovered after the second qualification round that he had taken a place in the A-final and with that he had secured the Championship.
So for the A-final he had quickly to refocus. With pole position it really looked good for Hansen. But immediately in the first corner he and archrival Per Eklund had a hard fight. Kenneth’s car went up on two wheels and Eklund disappeared out in the sand trap. Hansen could continue in the lead, but then made one of his few mistakes. The Citroën lost the grip in a hairpin corner and suddenly the Audi-driver Lars Larsson had passed.
– Then I said to myself: Hansen – concentrate, Kenneth says. So when Lars did a mistake out on the start/finish straight I gave it all and was able to retake the lead.
The Czech Pavel Koutny also overtook Larsson and now had Hansen in sight. With an engine that started to overheat and losing power the Swede had to show what he was made of. Koutny was eager to challenge Hansen and not very gentle when trying. Kenneth was hit several times, so when the finish flag finally came the Hansen-team could relax and start celebrating both the victory and the title.
The Dutch Jos Kuypers was fourth. Per Eklund, who came back up on the track after the start incident, was fifth, but only after passing the Ford of Mikael Jernberg who had slowed down with technical problems.
The tenth and last round of the European Championship takes place next weekend in Germany.
Results from the European Rallycross Championship, Round 9. Poland, Slomczyn.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 20 |
| 2 | Pavel KOUTNY | CZ | Ford Focus | 17 |
| 3 | Lars LARSSON | S | Audi A4 | 15 |
| 4 | Jos KUYPERS | NL | Ford Focus | 13 |
| 5 | Per EKLUND | S | Saab 93 | 12 |
| 6 | Mikael JERNBERG | S | Ford Focus | 11 |
Overall standings after 9 of 10 rounds
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 152 |
| 2 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 116 |
| 3 | Pavel Koutny | CZ | Ford Focus | 90 |
| 4 | Jos Kuypers | NL | Ford Focus | 88 |
| 5 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 85 |
Photo: Johnny Loix
September 14
SRC, Round 4
Götene, Kinnekulle Ring. September 14 2002
Kenneth Hansen Swedish Champion and winner on home race!
It was the day of Kenneth Hansen. Both victory and Championship-title. The 10:th!
Finally Kenneth got the longed for victory on his home circuit Kinnekulle Ring where the Swedish Rallycross Championship-final took place. In a dramatic final the Swede managed to break the 8-year spell and win again at his home arena to the joy and cheers from the spectators.
– The victory here at home feels just as great as the Championship-title, Hansen says with a big smile after the tough A-final.
After entering the final round of the Championship with maximum points Kenneth secured the title just by getting into the A-final. So with the gold-medal in his hand Kenneth focused all his attention in trying to get the highly desired home victory. With Hansen on pole position in the A-final it seemed to be an easy task. And after a perfect start Kenneth was in the lead immediately. Lars Larsson came out second with Stekka Walfridsson third. While Hansen increased his lead Larsson tried to hold off Stekka without success.
When Kenneth already on the second last lap choose to take the alternative route he found himself in difficulties. Kenneth was not so far ahead that he could regain the lead after the alternative and instead Walfridsson was the leader. Kenneth who so eagerly wanted to win took the first chance available and took back the leading place from Stekka again. But in the overtaking move the rear wheel was damaged on Kenneth’s car.
– I was really frightened during the last lap that I shouldn’t make it to the finish, Kenneth says. So when the checked flag was waved in front of me I was so very happy. The best victory of the year!
Per Eklund came in on second place after having fought his way up from fifth place. A valuable second as it gave him the bronze medal. Lars Larsson was third in the A-final, but he took the silver in the Championship.
Next race for Hansen will be the European Championship in Poland next weekend. And then Kenneth can secure the ERC-title as well. Two points are missing and after the strong season Hansen has had this year it looks good. Perhaps he can crown his 20:th season in rallycross with both a 10:th SRC-title and a 10:th ERC-title in his 10:th year with Citroën.
Results from the Swedish Rallycross Championship, Round 4. Götene.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 40 |
| 2 | Per EKLUND | S | Saab 93 | 34 |
| 3 | Lars LARSSON | S | Audi | 30 |
| 4 | Ola STENVALL | S | Hyundai | 26 |
| 5 | S-O WALFRIDSSON | S | Ford Focus | 24 |
| 6 | Ludvig HUNSBEDT | N | Ford Focus | 22 |
Overall standings after 4 of 4 rounds, the final results of the SRC 2002
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 100 |
| 2 | Lars LARSSON | S | Audi A4 | 71 |
| 3 | Per EKLUND | S | Saab 93 | 61 |
| 4 | Ola STENVALL | S | Hyundai | 50 |
| 5 | Eivind OPLAND | N | Mitsubishi | 49 |
Photo: Ulf "Fabbe" Fabiansson
The sweetest victory was probably the one at the Swedish Championship final on Kenneth's home circuit Kinnekulle Ring, where he also secured the 10:th Swedish Rallycross Championship title.
Photo: Ulf "Fabbe" Fabiansson
Kenneth Hansen is leading the A-final in front of Lars Larsson.
Behind them the big TV-screen.
Photo: Ulf "Fabbe" Fabiansson
Photo: Ulf "Fabbe" Fabiansson
Immediately after the A-final on Kinnekulle Ring Kenneth was celebrated by his loyal fans that has always supported him whatever the result. - With support like that it makes my racing life a lot easier, Kenneth says gratefully.
TOP
September 1
ERC Round 8
Norway, Lyngås. Aug.31-Sept.1 2002
Kenneth Hansen won in Norway!!!
Kenneth Hansen didn’t give up. After a thrilling fight with Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Kenneth managed on the last lap to overtake the Norwegian and win the eight round of the European Rallycross Championship. Now he is now very close to take the 10:th ERC title.
In the A-final Hansen and Hunsbedt gave a great show. Rallycross at its best. The two was on the front row. Hunsbedt was the fastest in the start and Kenneth followed as a shadow. Hansen tried to the right and to the left of the Norwegian. Ludvig drove fast but defensive and closed the door on Kenneth every time he stuck his nose into a gap. When they entered the sixth and last lap Ludvig perhaps cut the corners slightly to hard. At the same time he had to let one hand off the steering-wheel to start the cooling fans to prevent the engine from overheating. The result was that the car of Ludvig flipped up on two wheels. Hansen who was just a few decimetres behind reacted instinctively, pulled quickly to the outside of Hunsbedt and managed to overtake.
- It was sooo much fun to drive, Kenneth says with a big smile. Real driving, fast, close and fair. We actually had a similar fight already in one of the qualifying rounds, but then it was Ludvig that won. A terrific race!
Per Eklund, Hansen's closes rival for the title, had to admit defeat. He was third, but didn’t seem disappointed over that. He had done what was possible and came to congratulate Kenneth after the finish. On fourth place came another Norwegian, Morten Bermingrud, in the ex-Hansen Citroen. Ola Stenvall, the third Swede in the A-final, was fifth. The third Norwegian, Glenn Voie, was forced to retire the prestigious race with the unspoken fight between Sweden and Norway. A fight that contributes to the successful event.
Kenneth now leads the ERC with 132 points and is very close to the 10:th title. Only two points is missing. Is Kenneth fourth in the C-final (14:th) next time the gold is secured. So it looks good for Kenneth who has not even missed the podium once in the fantastic season.
Next round takes place in Poland on September 21-22.
Results from the European Rallycross Championship, Round 8. Norway, Lyngås.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 20 |
| 2 | Ludvig HUNSBEDT | N | Ford Focus | 17 |
| 3 | Per EKLUND | S | Saab 93 | 15 |
| 4 | Morten BERMINGRUD | N | Citroen Xsara | 13 |
| 5 | Ola STENVALL | S | Hyundai | 12 |
| 6 | Glenn VOIE | N | Opel Astra | 11 |
Overall standings after 8 of 10 rounds
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 132 |
| 2 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 104 |
| 3 | Jos Kuypers | NL | Ford Focus | 75 |
| 4 | Pavel Koutny | CZ | Ford Focus | 73 |
| 5 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 70 |
Kenneth won in Norway!!!
Kenneth won the most thrilling A-final of the year. Hunsbedt had pole position and took the lead ahead of Hansen Eklund and Bermingrud.
Hansen was right on the rear bumper of HUnsbedt all the time trying to overtake. It was so very close and it was rallycross at its best. Close, fast and clean. Wonderful to see and the spectators was thrilled over the excitement.
Kenneth tried and tried and Hunsbedt was closing every door. And perhaps a bit to near the curbs as he on the last lap had to let go of the steering wheel to put on the fans and then the car lifted up on two wheels. Kenneth who was right behind was not late to take the chance given to him. He went on the outside of Ludvig and passed him. When Ludvig came down on four wheels he went into the door of Kenneth. It was close but fair.
Third was Per Eklund, who wanted so much to be in front of Hansen, but the speed of the two leading duo was to high and he had to settle for third. Morten Bermingrud started on third position but had to steer away from Kenneth who had a fight with Hunsbedt just after the start. Per Eklund was then quick to take the gap available.
Kenneth is now so close to take his 10:th ERC-title. If he takes id fourth in C-final it should be finished.
Photo: Jonny Loix
Kenneth Hansen, who is a devoted fan of Leksand hockey team was celebrated with a real match sweater.
Kenneth sends his regards to everyone in Leksand hockey team and wishes them the best of luck for this season!
Photo: Susann Hansen
Ludvig Hunsbedt, Kenneth Hansen and Per Eklund celebrates a great race in Norway.
August 18
ERC Round 7
Holland, Valkenswaard. August 17-18 2002
Kenneth Hansen happy for second place in Holland
Kenneth Hansen, who is used to winning, was as happy today for his second place as for a victory. The Frenchman Jean-Luc Pailler won the seventh round of the European Rallycross Championship in Holland in front of a struggling Hansen.
The problems for Kenneth Hansen began in the first start of the A-final when the Norwegian Ludvig Hunsbedt drove into the right rear wheel of the Citroen. In the restart Kenneth knew it should be very difficult to handle the damaged car if he not even would have to retire from the A-final.
Therefore it was a peaceful journey for Pailler when Hansen came out behind him. Instead of chasing the Frenchman Kenneth was busy trying to survive the six laps of the A-final with and eagerly hunting Hunsbedt eating on the rear bumper of Hansen.
– The six laps was incredibly long, but I manage to hold on to my second place, Kenneth says with a satisfied smile after the finish.
Despite all Kenneth increased his lead of the European Championship with seven points as his hardest competitor for the title, Per Eklund, did not reach the A-final as he ended the day with disappointment only on second place in the B-final. Hansen leads with 112 points ahead of 89 for Eklund.
The Dutch driver Jos Kuypers was fourth after a big fight with the newcomer from Norway, Sverre Isachsen, who was fifth. Jos is third in the overall standings with 75 points. On the sixth and last place of the A-final was the Czech Pavel Koutny.
The next round of the ERC will take place on Lyngas-circuit just outside of Oslo in Norway on August 31- September 1.
Results from the European Rallycross Championship, Round 7. Holland, Valkenswaard.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Jean-Luc PAILLER | F | Peugeot 206 | 20 |
| 2 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 17 |
| 3 | Ludvig HUNSBEDT | N | Ford Focus | 15 |
| 4 | Jos KUYPERS | NL | Ford Focus | 13 |
| 5 | Sverre ISACHSEN | N | Ford Focus | 12 |
| 6 | Pavel KOUTNY | CZ | Ford Focus | 11 |
Overall standings after 7 of 10 rounds
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 112 |
| 2 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 89 |
| 3 | Jos Kuypers | NL | Ford Focus | 75 |
| 4 | Pavel Koutny | CZ | Ford Focus | 73 |
| 5 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 65 |
Photo: Johnny Loix
Kenneth was very happy to survive the A-final on second place behind Jean-Luc Pailler.
In the first start of the A-final Hunsbedt braked late and hit the right rear wheel of Hansen. The suspension broke on the Xsara making his wheel turn itself to the right as he steered left, which made the car very difficult to handle.
- I'm really happy to be able to have second place, because I was afraid during the whole A-final that the wheel brake more, Kenneth explains.
Ludvig Hunsbedt was third and said that he just waited for Kenneth's wheel to come off and that he really tired to overtake but that Kenneth went faster that he thought was possible with that kind of problem.
Photo: Susann Hansen
Photo: S.Hansen
The team had guests from CDX at the race in Holland.
Photo: Loix
Photo: Susann Hansen
August 11
ERC Round 6.
Belgium, Maasmechelen. August 10-11 2002.
Kenneth Hansen on third place in Belgium
Kenneth Hansen, who has had a brilliant season so far in the European Championship, was not able to quite pull it all together in the sixth round in Belgium. Kenneth was "only" third after the winner, his fellow country man, Per Eklund and second placed the Frenchman Jean-Luc Pailler.
- It was a tough race, Kenneth says all sweaty and breathless immediately after the finish line. I came out as the last man in the A-final, but I knew I could go faster than those in front. So I just started to chase for a better position.
First Kenneth passed the Dutchman Jos Kuypers, who had to retire. When Lars Larsson slided a bit wide Hansen was not late to overtake him. On the third lap of six Kenneth was on the tail of Ludvig Hunsbedt. Hansen reacted immediately when the Norwegian left the door open and he could advance to third place.
Jean-Luc Pailler was very careful with Kenneth behind him and closed all gaps that occurred during the two last laps when Kenneth anxiously tried to move up another place.
Per Eklund crossed the finish line first with Pailler and Hansen right behind.
Kenneth Hansen still leads the Championship with a big margin on 95 points. Per Eklund strengthened his second place with the victory and has now 79. Lars Larsson is third on 70.
Hansen continues his efforts to take the tenth ERC-title already next weekend in Holland.
Results from the European Rallycross Championship, Round 6. Belgium, Maasmechelen.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Per EKLUND | S | Saab 93 | 20 |
| 2 | Jean-Luc PAILLER | F | Peugeot 206 | 17 |
| 3 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 15 |
| 2 | Ludvig HUNSBEDT | N | Ford Focus | 13 |
| 5 | Lars LARSSON | S | Audi A4 | 12 |
| 6 | Jos KUYPERS | NL | Ford Focus | 11 |
Overall standings after 6 of 10 rounds
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 95 |
| 2 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 79 |
| 3 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 70 |
| 4 | Jos Kuypers | NL | Ford Focus | 62 |
| 5 | Pavel Koutny | CZ | Ford Focus | 56 |
Photo: Loix
Photo: Loix
July 27
SRC Round 3
Järbo, July 26-27 2002.
Kenneth Hansen won the third round of Rallycross SuperLegue
No-one could match the time of Kenneth Hansen in the final race up the hill "Kungsberget" in Jarbo where the third round of the Swedish Rallycross Championship took place. As the last man going up the stage Kenneth did a superb drive and did not only the best time of the day but also set a new hill-record. With 0.81 seconds Kenneth improved the old one to 1.09.76. Even the hillclimb specialist and Hansen’s arch rival Per Eklund came to congratulate to the victory.
- I’m a bit surprised myself over the good time, Kenneth smiles. I gave it all today, because hill-climb is not my favourite discipline, so this victory tasted extra well.
Per Eklund, second place, was only 0.09 seconds behind Kenneth before the second and last race. A couple of mistakes in the unforgiving steep hill made Per loose valuable tenths instead of improving his time.
Lars Larsson had a difficult beginning but made a strong finish and set the second fastest time, which saw to it that he had the last podium place.
With only 0.03 seconds Morten Bermingrud was beaten and had to settle for fourth place. Morten in the old Hansen car is a skilful hill-climb driver and he was one of the reasons for Kenneth to be able to make the winning drive.
Now only the final round remains of the Swedish Rallycross Championship, which takes place on September 14. Kenneth Hansen leads the Championship with maximum 60 points and has the beast opportunity in many years to take the SRC-title. Perhaps Kenneth can take the tenth title?
Next race will be the Belgium round of the European Rallycross Championship on August 10-11.
Results from the Swedish Rallycross Championship, Round 3. Järbo.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 20 |
| 2 | Per EKLUND | S | Saab 93 | 17 |
| 3 | Lars LARSSON | S | Audi | 15 |
| 4 | Morten BERMINGRUD | N | Citroen Xsara | 13 |
| 5 | Eivind OPLAND | N | Mitsubishi | 12 |
| 6 | Glenn VOIE | N | Opel Astra | 11 |
Overallstandings after 3 of 4 rounds
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 60 |
| 2 | Lars LARSSON | S | Audi A4 | 41 |
| 3 | Morten BERMINGRUD | N | Citroen Xsara | 38 |
| 4 | Morgan ANTONSSON | S | Saab 93 | 30 |
| 5 | Eivind OPLAND | N | Mitsubishi | 29 |
Photo: Susann Hansen
July 7
ERC Round 5
Sweden, Höljes. July 6-7 2002.
Triumph for Kenneth Hansen in Höljes!
It was simply the day of Kenneth Hansen. 17.000 spectators got proof of the winning driving style as he was leading the A-final from start to finish in the Swedish round of the European Championship in Höljes.
– It was perfect, Kenneth cheers whom also is half way to a tenth ERC-gold.
Kenneth already dominated the qualifications and had pole position secured after two heats. Ludvig Hunsbedt from Norway, stood beside Hansen in the start, followed the ERC-leader immediately after the first corner, but had difficulties to match the speed. The Citroen driver pulled away slowly and could unthreatened take his fourth ERC-victory this season.
Behind Kenneth and Ludvig, Morten Bermingrud (N), in the Hansen-Xsara from last year, a close fight with Per Elkhound. Per wasn’t especially happy being behind the Norwegian newcomer and tried everything to overtake. But it was not possible. Morten drove smart and managed to keep the eager Eklund. Bermingrud celebrated his third place in his first ERC-race as a winner.
Jos Kuypers (NL) was fifth and another newcomer, Sverre Isachsen, was sixth.
Now as the first half of the European Championship is done Hansen leads on maximum 80 points ahead of Per Eklund on 59 and Lars Larsson 58. Next round of the ERC will be after the summer break and take place in Belgium on August 10-11. Before that it will be the next round of the Swedish Championship in Jarbo on July 29.
Results from the European Rallycross Championship, Round 5. Sweden, Höljes.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 20 |
| 2 | Ludvig HUNSBEDT | N | Ford Focus | 17 |
| 3 | Morten BERMINGRUD | N | Citroen Xsara | 15 |
| 4 | Per EKLUND | S | Saab 93 | 13 |
| 5 | Jos KUYPERS | NL | Ford Focus | 12 |
| 6 | Sverre ISACHSEN | N | Ford Focus | 11 |
Overall standing after 5 of 10 rounds
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 80 |
| 2 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 59 |
| 3 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 58 |
| 4 | Pavel Koutny | CZ | Ford Focus | 55 |
| 5 | Jos Kuypers | NL | Ford Focus | 51 |
Photo: Johnny Loix
Photo: Johnny Loix
Photo: Susann Hansen
Photo: Susann Hansen
An interview with Kenneth by the Swedish channel TV4 just before Kenneth goes out to the second heat.
June 29
SRC Round 2
Kalix. June 28-29 2002
Kenneth Hansen won the SRC in Kalix
The superb form of Kenneth Hansen continues. The Citroen-driver took his second victory in a row in the Swedish Rallycross Championship in Kalix. He has now won five of six races this season. With the success today Hansen closes in on his longed for tenth SRC-gold.
– It has worked perfect all day, Kenneth smiles. Despite being here on the Kalix-circuit for the first time I managed to find a good rhythm immediately. The spectacular velodrome turn was a bit tricky to begin with, but after a couple of laps I got the hang of it. It was only in the A-final I almost lost it when I made a small mistake in the velodrome and I lost control for a moment, but I managed to survive the situation. Although my heart stopped for a second.
Behind Kenneth Hansen, who was in the lead of the A-final from start to finish, Lars Larsson and Morgan Antonsson had a big fight for second place. With a smart tactical move in the alternative corner Larsson overtook Antonsson.
Ola Stenvall had no use for his second start position in the A-final because in the first corner he had a small crash with Mikael Jernberg. Both got stuck for a while before Jernberg finally came back on the circuit again, but in a hopeless distant fifth place. The bad luck for Stenvall continued when also the gearbox broke and he finished sixth.
Morten Bermingrud, in the Hansen-Xsara from last year, failed in the start but go on to take fourth place today.
Next race will be the Swedish round of the European Championship the weekend of July 6-7. After that there will be a couple of weeks free before the next Swedish Championship, a hill climb event, in Jarbo on July 27.
Results from the Swedish Rallycross Championship, Round 2. Kalix.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 20 |
| 2 | Lars LARSSON | S | Audi | 17 |
| 3 | Morgan ANTONSSON | S | Saab 93 | 15 |
| 4 | Morten BERMINGRUD | N | Citroen Xsara | 13 |
| 5 | Mikael JERNBERG | S | Ford Focus | 12 |
| 6 | Ola STENVALL | S | Hyundai | 11 |
Overall standings after 2 of 4 rounds
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 40 |
| 2 | Lars LARSSON | S | Audi A4 | 26 |
| 3 | Morten BERMINGRUD | N | Citroen Xsara | 25 |
| 4 | Ola STENVALL | S | Hyundai | 24 |
| 5 | Morgan ANTONSSON | S | Saab 93 | 22 |
June 16
ERC Round 4
The Czech Republic, Ceska Lipa, Sosnova. June 15-16 2002.
Kenneth Hansen won the most thrilling race of the year!
Sosnova,
Kenneth Hansen won the fourth round of the FIA European Rallycross Championship in the Czech Republic. But it turned out to be a real thrill for Hansen.
– It was wonderful to managed stay in front for the whole final. I had made the wrong tyre choice and it got more and more difficult to drive throughout the final, Kenneth tells after the finish.
Hansen had pole position in the A-final and took the start without problems. For three laps Kenneth had a safe lead. Then the tyres were worn out. The last laps Hansen had to show his skills when the Czech Pavel Koutny was on his tail all the time. With great support from the spectators Koutny, who was on better tyres, challenged the lead of Hansen several times.
– When I realised I couldn’t drive faster than Pavel, Kenneth explains, I had to change tactics and instead try to put him out of his rhythm when he tried to overtake. Lucky me that it worked!
On third place came the Dutchman Jos Kuypers, who was second fastest in the qualification rounds, but was overtaken on the second lap by Pavel Koutny.
Per Eklund had, just as Kenneth, made the wrong choice of tyres due to the small shower just as the drivers should go out to the startgrid of the A-final.
Per was only fourth, but advanced to a shared second place in the overall standings with 58 points. Eklund is equal with Lars Larsson. Larsson finished last in the final after he had to retire at an early stage with technical problems. Kenneth extended his lead in the ERC today to 77 points.
Now it remains only one round in the first half of the European Championship. Next up is the ERC in Höljes the first weekend of July. A given success in Sweden. But before then the Swedes will face the Norwegians in the second round of the Rallycross SuperLegue in Kalix June 29.
Results from the European Rallycross Championship, Round 4. The Czech Republic, Sosnova.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 20 |
| 2 | Pavel KOUTNY | CZ | Ford Focus | 17 |
| 3 | Jos KUYPERS | NL | Ford Focus | 15 |
| 4 | Per EKLUND | S | Saab 93 | 13 |
| 5 | Marek ZEMAN | CZ | Ford Escort | 12 |
| 6 | Lars LARSSON | S | Audi A4 | 11 |
Overall standings after 4 of totally 10 rounds
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 77 |
| 2 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 58 |
| 2 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 58 |
| 4 | Jos Kuypers | NL | Ford Focus | 47 |
| 5 | Pavel Koutny | CZ | Ford Focus | 46 |
Photo: Johnny Loix
Photo: Johnny Loix
Photo: Susann Hansen
Photo: Susann Hansen
TOP
June 9
ERC Round 3
Austria, Greinbach. June 8-9 2002
Hansen on second place in Austria
Per Eklund won, Kenneth Hansen second and Lars Larsson third. It was a Swedish trio on the podium at the third round of the FIA European Rallycross Championship in Austria.
Somewhat unexpected Per Eklund came home with the victory ahead of his arch rival Kenneth Hansen. Hansen had been dominating the qualification rounds completely and secured pole position on an early stage. But just before the finals it came heavy rain showers, which changed the track dramatically. Per made a much better start then Kenneth and took the lead immediately. After that Per could control his lead easily as the remaining drivers were busy seeing the track at all.
- I had hope for victory, as it had been going so good before, Kenneth says. But I couldn’t make any attacks for overtaking at all on Per, no matter how much I wanted, because I didn’t see anything. It came up so much gravel on the windscreen that I was unable even to see Per, who was just a few meters in front of me. And when the water for the windscreen stopped I knew the race was lost.
The final perhaps didn’t look so dramatically, but the drivers had the hardest time ever.
– The heart is beating fast when you on the highest gear close to 160 km/h don’t have a clue of where the track is, Kenneth explains. You can only see a little out of the side windows and hope that there will be a small opening on the windscreen to know if it is time to brake or not. This is the worst weather to race in and one take very big risks.
Per was a very happy winner, who managed to beat Kenneth although it had looked impossible during the day. After the Swedish top trio came the Hungarian Tibor Rabocsi, the Czech Pavel Koutny and on the last place the Dutch Jos Kuypers.
Lars Larsson, who finished third today, is still on second place in the overall standings with 47 points after the leading Kenneth Hansen on 57. Eklund's victory meant he cam closer and is now on third place overall, only two points after Larsson.
The next race is already next weekend in the Czech Republic.
Results from the European Rallycross Championship, Round 3. Austria, Greinbach.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Per EKLUND | S | Saab 93 | 20 |
| 2 | Kenneth HANSEN | S | Citroen Xsara | 17 |
| 3 | Lars LARSSON | S | Audi A4 | 15 |
| 4 | Tibor RABOCSI | H | Mitsubishi | 13 |
| 5 | Pavel KOUTNY | CZ | Ford Focus | 12 |
| 6 | Jos KUYPERS | NL | Ford Focus | 11 |
Overall standings after 3 of 10 rounds
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 57 |
| 2 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 47 |
| 3 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 45 |
| 4 | Jos Kuypers | NL | Ford Focus | 32 |
| 5 | Pavel Koutny | CZ | Ford Focus | 29 |
Photo: Johnny Loix
Photo: Johnny Loix
Photo: Johnny Loix
Photo: Susann Hansen
Photo: Susann Hansen
May 26
ERC Round 2
France, Faleyras. May 25-26 2002.
Third victory in a row for Kenneth Hansen!
Kenneth Hansen is in a brilliant form right now. In his "second home country", France, he took with his Citroen Xsara a popular victory. The third in three weeks! A marvellous beginning to the season.
– It feels fantastic, Kenneth laughs. This was the toughest and the most difficult race so far, which makes the victory even better. We have really had to fight hard and show them what we are made of today.
The second round of the FIA European Rallycross Championship took place in Bordeaux, where the weather can be rather difficult. Sometimes sun, sometimes rain made the surface of the track unpredictable and it was hard to find the right settings for the car.
Finally Kenneth found the right choice and he was able to take pole position in the A-final. A perfect start sent Hansen off up in the lead immediately.
– The circuit here is really fast, so I knew that the slightest mistake could cost me the victory, especially when I had Per Eklund just behind, Kenneth says.
Hansen's tactical drive took him to the finish line with a good margin down to number two, Lars Larsson. Larsson, who in the final corner managed to pass Eklund. Larsson and Eklund had a thrilling fight, but afterwards they had different views of what had happened on the circuit. Per was also overtaken by the Frenchman Laurent Fouquet and was fourth overall.
Kenneth, who has 10-years anniversary with Citroen, is very popular in France and the 12.000 spectators saw Hansen taking a fine victory. Now he leads the European Championship with 40 points ahead of Larsson on 32.
Next race will be in Austria in 14 days.
Results from the European Rallycross Championship, Round 2. France, Faleyras.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 20 |
| 2 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 17 |
| 3 | Laurent Fouquet | F | Renault Clio | 15 |
| 4 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 13 |
| 5 | Jean-Luc Pailler | F | Peugeot 206 | 12 |
| 6 | Hervé Knapick | F | Peugeot 206 | 11 |
Overall standings after 2 of 10 rounds
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 40 |
| 2 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 32 |
| 3 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 25 |
| 4 | Jean-Luc Pailler | F | Peugeot 206 | 23 |
| 5 | Jos Kuypers | NL | Ford Focus | 21 |
Photo: Johnny Loix
Photo: Fabbe
Photo: Johnny Loix
Photo: Loix
Photo: Susann Hansen
Photo: Susann Hansen
TOP
May 19
ERC Round 1
Portugal, Lousada. May 18-19 2002
Kenneth HANSEN won the opening round of the ERC in Portugal
Kenneth Hansen did it again. He continued his winning style from the first round of the Swedish Championship last weekend with another victory at the opening race of the European Championship in Portugal today. With that he also moved one step closer to the 10:th ERC-gold he has set his eyes on this year.
– I have never started a season so good, Kenneth cheers. It feels fantastic!
As in Sweden the reigning champion dominated the qualification rounds. With two fastest times Hansen secured pole position in the A-final immediately.
But the A-final never was such an easy journey to the finish flag that Hansen had hope for. Already in the first corner it was a big crash, in which Hansen came out of in a better shape than Per Eklund and Jean-Luc Pailler who got so severe damages on their cars.
In this situation the Czech Pavel Koutny surprisingly came up behind Hansen and managed hang on to his tail very well.
- I thought I could quite soon get a few meters of space between us, Kenneth explains. But he didn’t give up and I really had to push myself not allowing him to overtake me.
During the race Hansen also had to worry about a problem with the cooling system, which with a bit of bad luck could have blow up the engine in the tough Portuguese heat.
But now both the Hansen nerves and the engine were able to take the pressure and they grabbed a fine victory in front of 15.000 spectators.
On third place came another Swede, Lars Larsson. He did a great race and showed some promising driving for the rest of the rallycross season. Lars kept away of the "Flying Dutchman" Jos Kuypers, who was forth overall.
Per Eklund, who lost a wheel in the start crash, was fifth and on sixth place came the Frenchman Jean-Luc Pailler.
Results from the European Rallycross Championship, Round 1. Portugal. Lousada.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 20 |
| 2 | Pavel Koutny | CZ | Ford Focus | 17 |
| 3 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 15 |
| 4 | Jos Kuypers | NL | Ford Focus | 13 |
| 5 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 12 |
| 6 | Jean-Luc Pailler | F | Peugeot | 11 |
Overall standings after 1 of 10 rounds
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 20 |
| 2 | Pavel Koutny | CZ | Ford Focus | 17 |
| 3 | Lars Larsson | S | Audi A4 | 15 |
| 4 | Jos Kuypers | NL | Ford Focus | 13 |
| 5 | Per Eklund | S | Saab 93 | 12 |
Photo: Johnny Loix
Photo: Johnny Loix
Photo: Johnny Loix
May 11
SRC Round 1
Arvika. May 11 2002
Kenneth Hansen won the first race of the year
Kenneth Hansen took the first step towards a tenth title in the Swedish Championship when he won in big style the first round in Arvika.
A very strong entry list with many interesting names gave the 6000 spectators an exiting show.
Hansen proved already in the qualification rounds that he should play a major roll this weekend. Victory in the first and third heats gave him the pole position in the A-final. When Ludvig Hunsbedt, who was on the same row as Hansen, jumpstarted and was forced to move back one row, the situation looked even brighter for Hansen.
And as expected Kenneth was fastest out of the first corner. But with a bit of surprise he got challenged by Eivind Opland, who after a perfect start from the last start position, fought with Kenneth for the lead as they entered the first corner.
- It feels always unsure how well you will succeed in the first race, Kenneth says. So a victory tastes very sweet!
– After the two opening laps, when Eivind followed as a shadow, I managed to get a few meters, Hansen continues, and after that I had the race under control.
Eivind had to settle for second place, while Hunsbedt, eagerly trying to overtake his Norwegian colleague, finished third.
The new interesting names in the SuperLegue showed that they for sure will give the established drivers a fight for their money in the future. The newcomers Ola Stenvall (S), Morten Bermingrud (N), in the old Hansen Citroen, and Sverre Isachsen (N) took the remaining three places in the A-final.
For the reigning Swedish Champion Michael Jernberg the day ended worse. He rolled in the third round and never reached the finals. Neither was Per Eklund in the top today. He finished second in the B-final.
Next race in the SRC is in Kalix on June 29. Next weekend the European Championship starts in Portugal.
Results from the Swedish Rallycross Championship, Round 1. Arvika.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 20 |
| 2 | Eivind OPLAND | N | Mitsubishi | 17 |
| 3 | Ludvig HUNSBEDT | N | Ford Focus | 15 |
| 4 | Ola STENVALL | S | Hyundai | 13 |
| 5 | Morten BERMINGRUD | S | Citroen Xsara | 12 |
| 6 | Sverre ISACHSEN | N | Ford Focus | 11 |
Overall standings after 1 of 4 rounds.
| Driver | Nation | Car | Points | |
| 1 | Kenneth Hansen | S | Citroen Xsara | 20 |
| 2 | Eivind OPLAND | N | Mitsubishi | 17 |
| 3 | Ludvig HUNSBEDT | N | Ford Focus | 15 |
| 4 | Ola STENVALL | S | Hyundai | 13 |
| 5 | Morten BERMINGRUD | S | Citroen Xsara | 12 |
Photo: Ulf "Fabbe" Fabiansson
Photo: Ulf "Fabbe" Fabiansson
Photo: Ulf "Fabbe" Fabiansson
Photo: Ulf "Fabbe" Fabiansson
Photo: Ulf "Fabbe" Fabiansson
10 – the magic number for Kenneth Hansen
Photo: Susann Hansen
- 10:th European Championship title
- 10:th Swedish Championship title
- 10:th year with Citroën
- 10:th year in the big category, division 1
Kenneth Hansen has been in the centre of rallycross action for a long time. Some calls him a veteran. But perhaps it is due to time and patience he has reached the level he has today. Nine times European Champion. Always chasing and always chased. That is what has kept the fighting spirit alive in all the battles he has fought with one archrival after the other.
Yet again he is ready to meet his competitors to see who is the best and who shall take the desirable gold medal.
The 10:th ERC-gold and the 10:th SRC-gold is what Kenneth has set his eyes on.
- Ten. It sounds good, Kenneth says. But I know it is a long way to walk. I have made that journey nine times already. No victory is to be taken for granted in advance. But it gives me inspiration and motivation. I look forward to getting started with the races again.
This year Kenneth has taken a step backwards concerning the number of races. Last year he did three championships, the European, the French and the Swedish. It was 21 events. He won the European, was second in the French and third in the Swedish.
Now he concentrates only on the ERC and the SRC. "Only" 14 races.
- It was no problems driving so many races at that moment, Kenneth explains. Everyone in the team was so focused on making it all work out. But afterwards we realised it is not something that is possible to do each year. It feels good to be back on a more normal level.
The car that Kenneth will drive is of course a Citroën Xsara. The co-operation with Citroën Sport in France and Citroën Sweden is on its tenth year.
- Time passes quickly when you’re having fun. Isn’t what you say, Kenneth laughs. From the very first moment it was been a good relationship. I have a great confidence in Citroën and they have been pleased with my results. So the years has gone quickly.
On Saturday May 11 in Arvika the Swedish Rallycross SuperLegue begins. With Kenneth on the start line eager to try to take the gold medal again.
Photo: Ulf "Fabbe" Fabiansson
This is the new Citroen Xsara of Kenneth Hansen in which he will try to take his 10:th ERC-title.
May 1
The 2002 race calendar
FIA European Rallycross Championship
and
Swedish Rallycross Championship
| Month | Date | Place | Championship | Round no. | Alternative race |
| May | 4-5 | ||||
| 11 | Arvika | SC | 1 | ||
| 18-19 | Lousada, Portugal | EM | 1 | ||
| 25-26 | Faleyras, France | EM | 2 | ||
| June | 1-2 | ||||
| 8-9 | Greinbach, Austria | EM | 3 | ||
| 15-16 | Sosnova, Czech Rep. | EM | 4 | ||
| 22-23 | |||||
| 29 | Kalix | SC | 2 | ||
| July | 6-7 | Holjes, Sweden | EM | 5 | |
| 13 | |||||
| 20-21 | |||||
| 27 | Jarbo | SC | 3 | ||
| August | 3-4 | ||||
| 10-11 | Maasmech. Belgium | EM | 6 | ||
| 17-18 | Valkensw. Holland | EM | 7 | ||
| 24-25 | |||||
| September | 31/8-1/9 | Lyngas, Norway | EM | 8 | |
| 7-8 | |||||
| 14 | Gotene | SC | 4 | ||
| 21-22 | Sclomcyn, Poland | EM | 9 | ||
| 28-29 | Buxtehude, Germany | EM | 10 | ||
| October | 5 | Lillehammer, Norway | Hillclimb Sweden vs. Norway |
||
| 12-13 |
March 22
Kenneth's new book, an updated edition of "Fran amateur till proffs" (From amateur to professional) is being released today at Malmo Motor show.
In a larger format (A4) and with the new modern graphic- and printing techniques the book has been given a face-lift. The last six years, 1996-2001, has been added to the previous edition together with new photos.
- I was very glad when the publisher contacted me about updating the book, Kenneth says. But at the same time it hit me how fast those years has gone by. Six years already...
A photo from the new book. Young Kenneth shows where he belongs....
Two champions
March 21
The Rallycross SuperLegue - changes in the calendar
Due to several different reasons the two Norwegian races in the "Swedish-Norwegian Championship" had to be cancelled. Unfortunately the decision came very late from the Norwegian ASN. But now an agreement has been reached which will be good for all parties.
The former "Swedish-Norwegian Championship" will be called The Rallycross SuperLegue and will consist of 4 rounds in Sweden, Arvika, Kalix, Jarbo and Gotene. The Norwegian top drivers will, as previous years, come to Sweden to participate.
The Rallycross SuperLegue will have the Swedish Championship status.
The Swedish channel, TV4, will produce and broadcast the four events on Sunday afternoons, the day after the race. The programmes will also be shown on Norwegian TV.
The Swedish and Norwegian drivers has also agreed to extend the cooperation by having the Swedish drivers come over to the traditional hill climb race in Lillehammer on October 5 for an international match between the countries.
This race will be shown on TV. On Viasat in Sweden and TV2 in Norway.
- I'm glad that we all together could rise above the problems that occurred when the two Norwegian races had to be cancelled, Kenneth comments. Now we can all focus on putting on a nice show with some really exciting races this summer.
January 2
10 years with Citroen in 2002
In 2002 Kenneth and Citroen celebrates their 10:th year together. The relationship started at the end of 1992 and during the winter Kenneth built up his first Citroen. It was the model ZX, in which he would make an unforgettable debut in 1993 by winning the ever first race together. In those nine years Kenneth and Citroen has taken 5 European Championship titles and four second places. An extraordinary achievement only possible to happened in a very special relationship.
Kenneth took his ninth (totally since 1989) FIA European Rallycross Championship title in 2001 in a Citroen Xsara.
In 2002 the goal will be to try to take the 10:th title in both the European Championship and in the Swedish Championship, where Kenneth also has nine titles.
(Link to 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009)
