Race & news - 2008
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ERC Germany
ERC Poland
Tatarstan
ERC Austria
ERC Austria
ERC Hungary
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Monaco, 2008.12.12
FIA Gala
Magic atmosphere at the FIA Gala in Monaco.
Kenneth Hansen enjoyed a wonderful evening at the FIA Gala in Monaco. The Gala was very glamourous and perfectly organised. All stars of the motorsport world was there, with Sebastian Loeb and Lewis Hamilton in the front row. All four champions from rallycross was there, Kenneth Hansen (div.1), Jussi Pinomäki (div.1A), Tomas Kotek (div.2) and Michael De Keersmacher (RC Cup).
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Photos: Hansen Motorsport
Championship Points 2008
The F.I.A. European Championship for Rallycross Drivers
The F.I.A. European Championship for Rallycross Drivers 2008
Division 1
| Pos | Name | Nat | P 4/5 |
F 11/5 |
H 1/6 |
A 8/6 |
N 29/6 |
S 6/7 |
B 10/8 |
NL 17/8 |
CZ 7/9 |
PL 14/9 |
D 5/10 |
TOTAL |
| 1 | Kenneth HANSEN Citroen C4 |
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17 | 15 | 20 | (9) | 17 | 17 | 15 | 17 | 20 | 13 | (10) | 151 |
| 2 | Ludvig HUNSBEDT Volvo S40 |
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20 | 17 | (0) | 10 | 20 | 12 | (12) | 20 | 17 | 12 | 15 | 143 |
| 3 | Mikael JERNBERG Skoda Fabia |
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12 | 13 | 17 | 20 | (11) | 15 | 17 | (0) | 9 | 11 | 13 | 127 |
| 4 | Sverre ISACHSEN For Focus |
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13 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 15 | 0 | 20 | 11 | 13 | 20 | (7) | 123 |
| 5 | Andreas ERIKSSON Ford Fiesta |
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(7) | 10 | 15 | 15 | 12 | 11 | (6) | 8 | 6 | 15 | 20 | 112 |
| 6 | Ole Kristian NÖTTVEIT Ford Focus |
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15 | (1) | 10 | 17 | 10 | 6 | 4 | (3) | 11 | 17 | 5 | 95 |
| 7 | Jean-Luc PAILLER Peugeot 206 |
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(0) | 20 | 13 | 12 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 15 | 4 | 3 | (0) | 92 |
| 8 | Stig-Olof WALFRIDSON Renault Clio |
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8 | 5 | - | 7 | 13 | 13 | 0 | 4 | 2 | 8 | 17 | 77 |
| 9 | Guttorm LINDEFJELL Ford Focus |
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0 | 11 | 9 | 13 | 0 | 2 | 11 | 12 | 3 | 2 | (1) | 63 |
| 10 | Per EKLUND Saab 93 |
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11 | 3 | 2 | 8 | 2 | 8 | 5 | (0) | 7 | 0 | 11 | 57 |
| 11 | Frode HOLTE Volvo S40 |
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4 | 4 | 12 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 10 | 5 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 51 |
| 12 | Olivier ANNE Citroen C4 |
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0 | 6 | 1 | 6 | 9 | - | - | 1 | 12 | 7 | 9 | 51 |
| 13 | Kjell Arne SMERUD Citroen Xsara |
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3 | 8 | - | - | 8 | 7 | - | 2 | 1 | 10 | 12 | 51 |
| 14 | Pavel KOUTNY Skoda |
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- | - | - | - | - | - | 7 | 13 | 15 | 9 | 0 | 44 |
| 15 | Jos KUYPERS Ford Focus |
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6 | 0 | 4 | - | - | - | 3 | 10 | 10 | - | - | 33 |
| 16 | Marcus GRÖNHOLM Ford Fiesta |
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- | - | - | - | - | 20 | - | 7 | - | 5 | - | 32 |
| 17 | Morten BERMINGRUD Citroen Xsara |
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10 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 9 | - | - | - | 28 |
| 18 | Morten JESPERSEN Peugeot 206 |
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1 | 0 | 6 | 3 | 1 | - | 13 | - | - | * | - | 24 |
| 19 | Koen PAUWELS Skoda Fabia |
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9 | 0 | - | 0 | - | - | 8 | - | - | - | 3 | 20 |
| 20 | Linas NORKUS Ford Focus |
2 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 3 | 4 | 0 | 0 | - | 4 | 0 | 18 | |
| 27 | Ayrat SHAYMIEV Ford Focus |
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5 | 0 | - | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 0 | 5 |
| 31 | Rustam MINNIKHANOV Citroen C4 |
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0 | 0 | - | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 2 | 4 |
| 32 | Harald SACHWEH Opel Astra |
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- | - | - | - | 3 | - | 0 | - | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
Point scoring regulations for the FIA European Rallycross Championship
The 10 races are divided into two halves. The first five races in the first half and the next five races in to second half.
From the first half 4 races out of 5 shall be taken into account for the overall standings.
From the second half 4 races out of 5 shall be taken into account for the overall standings.
The points are divided to the 16 first drivers as follows, where the winner gets the highest points:
20-17-15-13-12-11-10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1
TOP
2008.11.13
TV-show with Kenneth Hansen
Kenneth Hansen is inclined to agree that it is a big difference between winning and being second. With a ERC-gold in Rallycross that is two months old the wheels has continued to spin under Kenneth. It has been a busy time with interviews, both national and international, TV-shows and congratulations from different places.
Kenneth has been given the Bilsport Award as the Rallycross-driver of the year. On the magazines website it is possible to vote for the Senior of the Year and the Junior of the Year.
A couple of weeks ago Discovery Channel was on Kinnekulle Ring with Kenneth and his Citroen C4. It was the TV-show 5:th gear that made a story on how Kenneth is able to drive the powerful C4 with what it looks like no bigger effort.
Only yesterday Kenneth was in a studioshow in SVT Västnytt called “Eftersnack”. They talked about peoples passionate relationship to cars. Kenneth described what makes him a good driver and what in the driving he likes the best.
It has been many nice articles in several Swedish magazines and also in papers abroad. When someone is a winner there are many that is curious about the secret.
- It is good to be able to tell our version about ourselves and how we have worked to reach the goal, Kenneth says and takes another of the phone calls today.
See SVT Västnytts show ”Eftersnack”:
http://svt.se/svt/road/Classic/shared/mediacenter/index.jsp?&d=73359&lid=puff_906637&lpos=extra_0
Vote on Bilsport Award:
http://www.bilsport.se/bilsportAward.php
France 2008.10.08
Click in the article from the French Magazine Compte Tours to read the stories from the
Czech Republic and Poland.
Germany, Buxtehude, 2008.10.05
FIA European Rallycross Championship, round 11 of 11
Newly crowned European Champion Kenneth Hansen seventh in the ERC-final
Buxtehude,
Despite that the newly crowned European Rallycross Champion Kenneth Hansen was only seventh in the last round on the German track Estering it was an interesting weekend.
- We wanted to win, but this time it was not our weekend, Hansen says.
- We choose to test some new technical solutions on the Citroen C4 for next season. Some ideas we can put aside immediately as they were not good enough. But there are other ideas that we believe more in and that we will work harder on for next year.
Kenneth Hansen secured the ERC-gold already in the penultimate race in Poland two weeks ago, which took off the biggest pressure. In the qualification he was 5:th, 6:th and 12:th in the heats. Kenneth started second in the B-final and came way well from the line. But, Stig-Olov Walfridsson did an even better start and managed the increadible to take it from the last position. He drove really good, won the race and was the last one into the A-final. In the A-final he almost succeeded in doing the same again. He was only beaten by Andreas Eriksson. Third was Ludvig Hunsbedt and fourth Michael Jernberg, who also took the ERC-bronze.
- Tonight it is pricegiving and a big ERC-party, Hansen smiles with expectations.
- Now we will celebrate the ERC-title properly with the whole gang that has come here to be with us on this special evening.
Team Hansen had also a car in the smaller cathegory, Division 1 A. Johan Larsson from Sweden debuted with the team’s Citroen Saxo, and he did it very well. Johan has done only a few races earlier this year, but showed that he had speed as the topdrivers. Johan won the B-final and then gained a couple of places in the A-final to finish fourth.
- I’m really happy and hope to get a good deal together for next year, Larsson says.
- It’s a pity that it was the last race of the season as this turned out so great!
Results Division 1, A-final
1. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford 20 p.
2. Stig-Olov Walfridsson (S) Renault 17 p.
3. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 15 p.
4. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 13 p.
5. Kjell Arne Smerud (N) Citroen Xsara 12 p.
6. Per Eklund (S) Saab 11 p.
Results Division 1A, A-final
1. Jussi Pinomäki (SF) Renault 20 p.
2. Mattias Thörjesson (S) Opel 17 p.
3. Per Gustafsson (S) Peugeot 15 p.
4. Johan Larsson (S) Citroen Sax 13 p.
5. Mats Lysen (N) Citroen Saxo 12 p.
6. Christian Petrakovits (A) Seat 11 p.
Big drama!
Susann Hansen and Kenneth Hansen
Germany, Buxtehude, 2008.10.05
FIA European Rallycross Championship, round 11 of 11
Hansen went off in the first corner in heat 3
- I started in third position and had a fairly good start, Kenneth explains and continues.
- But then I had a push, not so hard, but enough to go sideways into the barriers. I could go on after I had reversed and got the car in the right direction.
The laps times were fine but the overall time suffered badly due to the off he had in the beginning. Hansen finished 12:th and will start third in the B-final.
Michael Jernberg was fastest again and has pole position in the A-final. He will be joined by Andreas Eriksson, Per Eklund, Kjell Arne Smerud and Sverre Isachsen.
All results see www.erc24.com
Germany, Buxtehude, 2008.10.05
FIA European Rallycross Championship, round 11 of 11
Sixth place in heat 2 for Kenneth Hansen
Rain has been pouring all day here on Estering and the conditions are really difficult. Cold, wet and extremely slippery makes life hard for a race driver today.
- I lost the start to Eriksson and Hunsbedt as they had advantage of the inside as we reached first corner, Kenneth says.
- All through the first two laps I struggled with finding some grip. Towards the end I began to get it right and my laptimes went down.
Kenneth got sixth time overall and now needs a top three to be sure to get a place in the A-final.
Andreas Eriksson was fastest followed by Michael Jernberg and Sverre Isachsen.
All results on www.erc24.com
Germany, Buxtehude, 2008.10.04
FIA European Rallycross Championship, round 11 of 11
Kenneth was fifth overall in the first heat.
The mechanics in the Hansen team did an outstanding job changing the engine in only two hours! The engine failiure in the official timed practice was not reparable and the only option was to change.
- The guys are impressive when they work under time pressure like this, Kenneth says very proud.
- Kennet Nyberg, Rickard Johansson, Stefan Bäcklund, Vincent Garreau and Joel Christoffersson was the heroes of today.
Kenneth did a poor start in the heat and has second behind Per Eklund.
- I struggled as my new engine began to misfire, Kenneth explains. I tried to be gentle with the throttle as it was better that way.
Kenneth was fifth overall with Ludvig Hunsbedt fastest again.
See all results on www.erc24.com
Germany, Buxtehude, 2008.10.04
FIA European Rallycross Championship, round 11 of 11
Kenneth retired in the timed qualification with engine problems.
After two laps of the timed qualification in Germany there were big flames from the right front end of Kenneths car.
- I felt something happening with the engine and then I saw the fire from the turbo side of the car and stopped at once, Kenneth says.
Luckily Kenneth managed to do one lap before the problems occured. He got ninth time overall. Fastest was Ludvig Hunsbedt.
See all results on www.erc24.com
Poland, Slomczyn, 2008-09-14
Kenneth Hansen is the new EUROPEAN RALLYCROSS CHAMPION 2008!!!!!
Kenneth Hansen has just finished fourth in the A-final in Poland and with that he secured the 14:th European Rallycross Championship title!
Hi hardest competitor, Ludvig Hunsbedt, chased Hansen through the whole final but with a remarkable mental strength Hansen survived the pressure and took his Citroen C4 to the checked flag in front of the Norwegian.
- I am so happy, relieved, satisfied and quite dizzy from all the excitement, Kenneth cheers with tear of joy in his eyes.
- Of my now fourteen gold medals this was the most difficult to get and therefore I value it very high. Now I and my gold-team will celebrate in style!
Kenneth Hansen had a long journey this race and was only the last one to enter directly into the A-final. The whole thing could have been settled all ready in the B-final where the other title contender was. Had Hunsbedt been on second place there Hansen’s gold would have been secured. But from his fourth start position Hunsbedt went on to win it and grabbed the last spot on the A-final grid alongside Hansen. A thrilling gold-battle was on!
In the start Hansen had nerves of steel and came a way perfect. He went for the inside and managed to get third place out of the first corner. Michael Jernberg spun off. Sverre Isachsen stormed away and lead from start to finish with Ole Kristian Nöttveit on second place. Andreas Eriksson did better on his Jokerlap and moved Hansen down to fourth. Just behind Hansen Hunsbedt followed like a shadow. Ludvig knew his only chance to keep the title fight a live was to be ahead of the Swede. It was an amazing fight all the way to the finish line, but Kenneth hold his head down and focused on one corner at the time until he last meter.
- With a new European Championship title I will of course get most of the limelight, Kenneth says proudly, and just because of that I want take the opportunity to repeat what the legendary basketball player said: “Talent wins games, but teamwork wins championships.” This title that we earned today is the proof of just that. Teamwork!
It remains one more round of the championship in Germany in three weeks. But even if Hunsbedt wins that one he can not beat the 151 points Kenneth has now.
A-final, Poland
1. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford 20 p.
2. Ole Kristian Nöttveit (N) Ford 17 p.
3. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford 15 p.
4. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 13 p.
5. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 12 p.
6. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 11 p.
Overallstandings after 10 of 11 rounds:
1. Kenneth Hansen 151 p.
2. Ludvig Hunsbedt 148 p.
3. Sverre Isachsen 123 p.
TOP
Poland, Slomczyn, 2008-09-14
Startgrid Division 1
A-final
1. Sverre Isachsen
2. Michael Jernberg
3. Andreas Eriksson
4. Ole Kristian Nöttveit
5. Kenneth Hansen
6. Winner B-final
B-final
1. Olivier Anne
2. Stig-Olov Walfridsson
3. Frode Holte
4. Ludvig Hunsbedt
5. Kjell Arne Smerud
6. Winner C-final
C-final
1. Guttorm Lindefjell
2. Marcus Grönholm
3. Pavel Koutny
4. Jean-Luc Pailler
5. Linas Norkus
6. Christoffer EvansPoland, Slomczyn, 2008-09-14
Aj, aj - Kenneth spun in the third heat.
- It was such big pressure from the outside when we stormed for the first corner, Kenneth explains. As I tried to get away from it my car was set off in a 360 degree spin.
Hansen continued but but was delayed again and finished on 17:th overall.
Heat 3.
1. Michael Jernberg
2. Ole Kristian Nöttveit
3. Ludvig Hunsbedt
4. Jean-Luc Pailler
5. Andreas Eriksson
6. Olivier Anne
7. Lina Norkus
8. KJell Arne Smerud
9. Pavel Koutny
10. Christoffer Evans
11. Marcus Grönholm
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17. Kenneth HansenPoland, Slomczyn, 2008-09-14
Hansen third in heat 2.
- I had a better start but was squeezed between Holte and Anne as we raced towards the first corner, Kenneth says.
The team had made some chassi changes for this heat and it turned out to be better for Kenneth who thought he could control the car easier.
1. Sverre Isachsen
2. Andreas Eriksson
3. Kenneth Hansen
4. Michael Jernberg
5. Frode Holte
6. Ole Kristian Nöttveit
7. Stig-Olov Walfridson
8. Kjell Arne Smerud
9. Guttorm Lindefjell
10. Oliver Anne
11. Marcus Grönholm
12. Ludvig Hunsbedt
13. Per Eklund
14. Pavel Koutny
15. Christoffer Evans
All results on www.erc24.com
Poland, Slomczyn, 2008-09-13
Sixth place to Kenneth in the first qualification round
Even if Kenneth was second after Michael Jernberg in the heat the time did only sixth overall.
- I guess it was my own fault, Kenneth summons. I was "sleeping" in the start and then I did not like the set-up of the car that we had choosen. I needed to drive in a way that was not very successful.
1. Sverre Isachsen
2. Michael Jernberg
3. Andreas Eriksson
4. Olivier Anne
5. Stig-Olov Walfridson
6. Kenneth Hansen
7. Ole Kristian Nöttveit
8. Frode Holte
9. Guttorm Lindefjell
10. Marcus Grönholm
All results see LIVE! at www.erc24.com
Czech Republic, Sosnova, 2008.09.07 Kenneth Hansen took important victory in the Czech Republic Kenneth Hansen survived the pressure and delivered a second victory of the European Rallycross Championship this year in the ninth round of the series in the Czech Republic. An important victory, which increases Kenneth’s lead to 10 points and he takes a better grip on his concurrent as only two rounds remains. - Today it was sweaty, Hansen says happily regarding the hard fight in the A-final between him and his main adversary Ludvig Hunsbedt. - My Citroen was perfect and I knew that it was all up to me and my ability to control the stress of being pressed intensively. Kenneth started in pole position and managed to lead the race from start to finish through a strong and flawless drive. The most important for the overall standings was to keep Ludvig behind. Hunsbedt started in the second row, but did a fantastic start and was up chewing on Hansen’s rear bumper all ready on the first lap. During three dramatic laps the Norwegian did everything he could to disturb Hansen and get him off the line. Hansen just kept his head down and finally pulled away some meters to take a nice and safe victory. Into the first corner the Czech driver Pavel Koutny, who was on the side of Hansen on the grid, spun off taking the Frenchman Olivier Anne with him. Ole Kristian Nöttveit was blamed for the incident and suffered a black flag. Koutny fought his way back and took third place.
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Czech Republic, Sosnova, 2008.09.06
Kenneth number one in the first qualification heat in the Czech Republic
After a restart in the first heat, when Sverre Isachsen jumpstarted, Kenneth could go on to take victory in the run. He also won the qualification round with 0.04 seconds ahead of Koutny.
- I did a good start, Kenneth explains, and then I went on to win. I was perhaps a bit too careful on the gravel section as I did not want to make a mistake.
Heat 1.
1. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen 2.57:44
2. Pavel Koutny (CZ) Ford 2.57:48
3. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 2.58:48
4. Olivier Anne (F) Citroen 2.58:94
5. Jos Kuypers (NL) Ford 2.59:83
6. Ole Kristian Nöttveit
7. Jean-Luc Pailler
8. Guttorm Lindefjell
9. Michael Jernberg
10. Stig-Olov Walfridson
All results see www.erc24.com
TOP
Tatarstan, Kazan 2008-09-02
Kenneth Hansen won President Cup in Tatarstan
Kenneth Hansen wrote a piece of history when he this Sunday was the first Swede to compete in rallycross in the Russian Republic Tatarstan. Hansen did what most people expected from the 13 time European Champion and won the race, The President Cup, ahead of the country’s Prime Minister Rustam Minnikhanov.
- It was great to win as it was the first time here and all, Kenneth smiles. I did not have my own race car but used another Citroen C4. It took a while to find the good feeling with both the car and the challenging circuit, but got it right at the end.
Minnikhanov and Hansen are driver colleges in the European Championship and thanks to that Kenneth was invited to participate in the new built Rallycross track situated just outside of the main capital Kazan.
- It has been an interesting and exiting experience to visit Tatarstan, Kenneth says regarding all the impressions he has brought home with him to Sweden. It is a fantastic country, who unfortunately is not very well-know by most Swedes.
Tatarstan is working hard to raise its level of the Rallycross circuit to within a couple of years hopefully get a round of the FIA European Championship.
- The organiser has all the conditions to make a good race, Hansen comments. They have the ambition, the motivation and the resources to be a strong actor in the sport. Today I guess the main problem to get a round is the distance. But I think that if we solve this one obstacle to find a good way to transport the team’s cars and equipment to Kazan, who is situated 800 km east of Moscow, they are a foregone candidate in the series.
Right now Kenneth is at home in Götene again, making the final preparations before setting off to the Czech Republic for the ninth round of the ERC that takes place this weekend, September 6-7.
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Photos: Hansen Motorsport
Sweden, Helsingborg 2008-08-17
Timmy Hansen Swedish Champion in Karting KF2
While Kenneth did the ERC in Holland his son Timmy Hansen, 16, drove the final round of the Swedish Championship in Karting in Helsingborg and was crowned Swedish Champion in the KF2-cathegory. Timmy won all three finals after a strong performance. This was the first major Championship victory for Timmy and he was overjoyed.
- The feeling to cross the finish line as both the winner of the race and the gold medal was quite wild, Timmy says with happiness shining from his face.
- I was very focus on my target today and when I understood I had won it was like a thunderstorm of joy inside of me.
Read more and see more photos on Timmys page.
Holland, Valkenswaard 2008-08-17
FIA European Rallycross Championship in Holland Valkenswaard
Hansen sad after his collegue’s big crasch in Holland
Valkenswaard,
Just after the start of the B-final in division 1 in the Dutch round of the European Championship Kenneth Hansen’s driver colluege Morten Bermingrud crasches heavily into the barrier. With both legs broken he is taken to hospital with severe pain.
This was the accident that made the drivers to take a unanimous decision not to go through with the race in full speed. The track was just not safe enough.
Kenneth Hansen says:
- When the organiser refuses to listen to us drivers, but considered that we should continue like nothing has happened, we just had to set out foot down and show that we are not prepared to put ourselves into such risks anymore. So we said: - OK we drive but only in a speed we feel is safe.
The drivers decided that the result into the finals should be the final ones and like in a parade the drivers went slowly around the circuit for the obligatory laps.
Ludvig Hunsbedt won the race while Kenneth was on second place. Hansen still leads the European Championship with seven points with three rounds to go. The next one is in the Czech Republic on September 7.
A-final Valkenswaard:
1. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 20 p.
2. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 17 p.
3. Jean-Luc Pailler (F) Peugeot 15 p.
4. Pavel Koutny (CZ) Ford 13 p.
5. Guttorm Lindefjell (N) Skoda 12 p.
6. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford 11 p.
ERC standings after 8 of 11 rounds
1. Kenneth Hansen – 118 p.
2. Ludvig Hunsbedt – 111 p.
3. Michael Jernberg – 94 p.Holland, Valkenswaard 2008-08-17
FIA European Rallycross Championship in Holland Valkenswaard
It was a very strange and sad end to the race in Holland. After big accident in the B-final where Hansen's Citroen colleague Morten Bermingrud was badly injured all drivers made a unanimous decision not drive the rest of the finals in race speed.
Both the restart of the B-final and the A-final was done like a parade to get a result of the race.
- It did not feel right to continue with Morten in hispital with two broken legs, Kenneth says.
- Despite that all us drivers said that the race should be cancelled the organisers refused. It was nothing we could do so we just agreed that the positions we had into the finals should be the one and then we just cruised around the track.
Read more on www.erc24.com
A-final
1. Ludvig HUnsbedt 20 p.
2. Kenneth Hansen 17 p,
3. Jean-Luc Pailler 15 p.
4. Pavel Koutny 13 p.
5. Guttorm Lindefjell 12 p.
6. Sverre Isachsen 11 p.
Kenneth and Jean-Luc Pailler speaking to the organiser in Holland
Holland, Valkenswaard 2008-08-16
FIA European Rallycross Championship in Holland Valkenswaard
Kenneth Hansen fourth on heat 1
Hansen did a fine start and was first to the first corner with Michael Jernberg behind him. Kenneth was producing a good laptime but on the second lap Hedström broke his transmission. He parked his car in the exit of the chikane forcing everyone in the heat to slow down and go very wide.
- I lost very much due to this and it played in the hands of Hunsbedt, Kenneth says. I was surprised they did not red flag the heat as he was standing still in a dangerous place.
Qualification round 1
1. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 2.35:64
2. Jean-Luc Pailler (F) Peugeot 2.37:36
3. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford 2.38:05
4. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 2.38:27
5. Jochen Coox (B) Skoda
6. Guttorm Lindefjell (N) Skoda
7. Michael Jernberg (S) SKoda
8. Morten Bermingrud (N) Citroen Xsara
9. Stig-Olov Walfridson (S) Renault
10 Pavel Koutny (CZ) Ford
::
13. Marcus Grönholm (SF) Ford
Holland, Valkenswaard 2008-08-17
FIA European Rallycross Championship in Holland Valkenswaard
After being hit by Lindefjell Kenneth went off the track
- I was very disappointed with the way he acted, Kenneth says. Now I need to finish with in topthree in the third heat.
Qualification round 2
1. Pavel Koutny
2. Olivier Anne
3. Jean-Luc Pailler
4. Pat Doran
5. Marcus Grönholm
6. Guttorm Lindefjell
7. Jos Kuypers
8. Morten Bermingrud
9. Frode Holte
10. Kenneth Hansen
All results on www.erc24.comTOP
Holland, Valkenswaard 2008-08-16
FIA European Rallycross Championship in Holland Valkenswaard
Hansen second fastest in the timed practice.
- It was okey, Kenneth says. I improved my laptime with nearly a second and that was really good. The track is getting better and better so we need to follow up with a more racing set-up than we normally use.
1. Sverre Isachsen
2. Kenneth Hansen
3. Ludvig Hunsbedt
4. Michael Jernberg
5. Morten Bermingrud
6. Peter Hedström
7. Jean-Luc Pailler
8. Oliver Anne
9. Marcus Grönholm
10 Kjell Arne SmerudTOP
Maasmechelen - 2008-08-10
FIA European Rallycross Championship in Belgium, Maasmechelen.
Kenneth Hansen still in ERC lead after Belgium
Kenneth Hansen finished on third place after an eventful A-final in the seventh round of the European Championship in Rallycross took place in Belgium. He keeps his lead in the overall standings with 101 points ahead of his two hardest competitors Michael Jernberg with 94 and Ludvig Hunsbedt on 91.
It was Sverre Isachsen who did it best today when he went on to win the race from pole position. The A-final was a real thrill with several changes during the six intensive laps. Kenneth Hansen was just about to go into second place when he and Hunsbedt had a close fight which ended with Hansen spinning off the track.
- A third place turned out to be a rather good result after all considering I was the last one after the spin, Kenneth says.
- I did a very poor start, Hansen remembers. When I finally get some grip Hunsbedt had already overtaken me and I was fourth. In that moment I decided to use the joker lap and focus my tactics on catching up. As I took the decision late I misjudged the corner, the car flips up on two wheels in the exit. I had a nice adrenaline kick there for a moment.
Hansen picks one after one and is just about to pass Hunsbedt, as he comes back from the joker part. Of course no one wants to give up and Hansen’s Citroen goes into the wrong direction. After a couple of laps it gets equal as Hunsbedt has to retire with damages from the Hansen-fight. Shortly after Guttorm Liundefjell retires as well. Michael Jernberg is the one earning most in the dramas and he finished on second place after Isachsen. The young rising star from Denmark, Morten Jespersen, started from the first row and gets fourth place after a fine drive among those experienced drivers.
Kenneth increased his top position in the standings with one point as we already face a new race next weekend in Holland.
A-final, Division 1, Belgium
1. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford – 20 p.
2. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda – 17 p.
3. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroën C4 – 15p.
4. Morten Jespersen (DK) Peugeot – 13 p.
5. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo – 12 p.
6. Guttorm Lindefjell (N) Skoda – 11 p.
Overall standings after 7 of 11 rounds
1. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 101 p.
2. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 94 p.
3. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 91 p.
See more on www.erc24.com .
2008.08.10
FIA European Rallycross Championship in Belgium, Maasmechelen.
Hansen was on slicks, then the rain came.
- The track had started to get dry again, Kenneth says.
- I had put on slick tyres, but as I was on the line up a rain shower sweept in again over the circuit. So there I was on my slicks and nothing I could do about it. It was lucky that I had already two good results, as I finished 28 in this round.
Heat 3.
1. Alexandre Theuil (F) VW
2. Jos Kuypers (NL) Ford
3. Koen Pauwels (B) Ford
4. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo
5. Morten Jespersen (DK) Peugeot
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28. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4
See all results on www.erc24.com2008.08.10
FIA European Rallycross Championship in Belgium, Maasmechelen.
Hansen won the heat but was fifth overall.
- I lost the start to Eriksson and Koutny and choose to take the jokerlap at once, Kenneth explains.
- It was a good move but later on in the race I was delayed a cuople of times as Eriksson and Koutny were fighting and struggling to keep up the pace at the same time. When they joined the joker lap I was able to pass them, but had already lost precious seconds.
Morten Jespersen set the fastest time on the wet track. The rain has been pouring down all morning.
Heat 2.
1. Morten Jespersen (DK) Peugeot
2. Ole Christian Nöttveit (N) Ford
3. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford
4. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda
5. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4
6. Guttorm Lindefjell (N) Skoda
7. Jean-Luc Pailler (F) Peugeot
8. Pavel Koutny (CZ) Ford
9. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford
10. Morten Bermingrud (N) Citroen Xsara
11. Tony Bell (GB)
12. Stig-Olof Walfridson (S) Renault
See all results on www.erc24.comTOP
2008.08.09
FIA European Rallycross Championship in Belgium, Maasmechelen.
Hansen second fastest in the first qualification round.
Kenneth managed to take the start a head of Michael Jernberg in the first heat session. Hansen was leading except on the second last lap when he was on the jokerlap. Then it was Michael Who was first but as he turned in on the slower section Hansen regained his first place.
- Not much to complain about, Hansen smiles. I was quite happy with that one. Sverre is quick, we'll see if we can figure something out for tomorrow.
Qualification round !
1. Sverre Isachsen
2. Kenneth Hansen
3. Ludvig Hunsbedt
4. Andreas Eriksson
5. Michael Jernberg
6. Jean-Luc Pailler
7. Guttorm Lindefjell
8. Pavel Koutny
9. Frode Holte
10. Patrick van Mechelen
See all results on www.erc24.com
2008.08.09
FIA European Rallycross Championship in Belgium, Maasmechelen.
Kenneth was fourth on the official timed practice.
- It was OK, Kenneth comments simply.
- I wanted to test something and now we will evaluate it to see if we will use it again or not. The track is different from last year and the driving has to be more aggressive now.
Sverre Isachsen was fastest with Michael Jernberg on second and Pavel Koutny on third.
- That means I will have Jernberg on my inside, Kenneth says and reflects.
- I will for sure need a good start and then a strong drive in the heat.
Official timed practice:
1. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford
2. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda
3. Pavel KOutny (CZ) Ford
4. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4
5. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford
6. Ole Kristian Nöttveit (N) Ford
7. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo
8. Morten Bermingrud (N) Citroen
9. Per Eklund (S) Saab
10 Guttorm Lindefjell (N) Skoda
See all results on www.erc24.com
TOP
2008.07.14
Kenneth son Timmy Hansen qualified to the European Karting Championship in Braga Portugal after a great performance in the European Qualification that took place in Gothenburg on July 10-13.
Timmy was leading the first Final, when an engine problem made him drop to 13:th. In final 2 he got his revenge. He did a remarkable drive and set the fastest lap time of the weekend when he climbed from 13 to a strong second place.
- It was one of my best races in my career so far, Timmy says with the biggest smile after the race.
See the part that was sent on TV4 after the race:
http://nyhetskanalen.se/2.139?videoId=1.541021
Photo: Hansen Motorsport
FIA European Rallycross Championship 2008
Sweden, Höljes, 2008-07-06
Hansen and Grönholm both winners in Sweden!
Kenneth Hansen won the first half of the European Championship after a strong second place behind the Finish Rally World Champion Marcus Grönholm who won the Swedish round.
If Marcus Grönholm was excited to take his first victory in his debut in rallycross Kenneth Hansen was almost as happy for his second place.
- The most important for me this weekend was to increase my lead in the championship, Kenneth smiles.
- And I did it. But it was a hard A-final where I finally was the one to chase Grönholm over the finish line.
Hansen did a tactical good A-final. Grönholm pulled away with the lead in the start followed by Mikael Jernberg, Andreas Eriksson and Stig-Olof Walfridson. Hansen went for the joker lap immediately and could then on concentrate on closing in on the leader. Kenneth had really a quick car and he took his Citroen C4 nearer and nearer the top for each lap. Ludvig Hunsbedt hanged on to Hansen. On the third lap Hansen was right behind Stecka. But as he overtook Hunsbedt managed to squeeze ahead of both. But his happiness was short when he spun out after the jump. As Eriksson had been forced to retire on the first round it remained only Jernberg and Grönholm in front of Hansen. Jernberg disappeared when he went on the joker. And then the last lap. Hansen who had closed in on Marcus meter by meter had him in his reach has the Finn came out of the joker.
- It was really close that I had overtaken him; Kenneth says who normally doesn’t give up that easily.
- But I choose not to risk anything as we both were winners anyway.
Höljes had a new record for spectators with over 25.000 persons who saw first class motorsport show for two days.
Hansen leads the ERC standings with 86 points ahead of second place Hunsbedt on 79 and Jernberg on 77.
Next half and round of the Championship is in Belgium on August 8-9-
A-final Höljes:
1. Marcus Grönholm (SF) Ford 20 p.
2. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 17 p.
3. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 15 p.
4. Stig-Olof Walfridson (S) Renault 13 p.
5. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 12 p.
6. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford 11 p.
ERC standings after 6 of 11 rounds
1. Kenneth Hansen – 86 p.
3. Ludvig Hunsbedt – 79 p.
2. Michael Jernberg – 77 p.
4. Andreas Eriksson – 63 p.
5. Jean-Luc Pailler – 62 p.
TOP
Sweden, Höljes 2008-07-06
Kenneth increased his ERC-lead after second place in Sweden.
It was a dramatic A-final with tons of action throughout the five hot laps.
Grönholm pulled away in the lead from pole position but was followed closely by Jernberg and Eriksson the first lap. Hansen went for the joker lap right away. Is tactics were to make a clean race all the way. He knew that if he just could be alone and drive he would match the speed of Grönholm.
And Kenneth was fast. He came closer and closer for each lap. On the third one he caught Walfridson and was a little delayed. When he tried to overtake he instead was pushed wide by Hunsbedt and lost a place. But shortly after Hunsbedt slides off the track and Hansen regains his place. On the last lap Grönholm went for the joker and Hansen braked heavily not to hit him as he came back onto the track.
- I tried very hard to catch Marcus, but I was not able to do it, Kenneth says happily after increasing his ERC-lead. Marcus is strong and enjoy having him here in rallycross. We will certainly have some good races in the future!
A-final
1. Marcus Grönholm 20
2. Kenneth Hansen 17
3. Mikael Jernberg 15
4. Stig-Olov Walfridsson 13
5. Ludvig Hunsbedt 12
6. Andreas Eriksson 11 (retired on lap 1)
TOP
Sweden, Höljes 2008-07-06
Third place in third heat and third place into the A-final for Kenneth.
It took twos out of the four before the laptimes began to drop for Kenneth. The problem was that a driver in the earlier heat had went off the track and it was alot of dust and mud on it.
- I was caught a little by surprise and I struggled in the first laps, Kenneth says.
Eriksson was fastest with Jernberg on second. Grönholm finished seventh.
Heat 3.
1. Andreas Eriksson
2. Mikael Jernberg
3. Kenneth Hansen
4. Ole Kristian Nöttveit
5. Kjell Arne Smerud
6. Stig-Olov Walfridsson
7. Marcus Grönholm
8. Linas Norkus
9. Jean-Luc Pailler
All results on www.erc24.comTOP
Sweden, Höljes 2008-07-06
Wrong tyre choice for Kenneth Hansen and only a sixth time.
Kenneth had too much wheel spin in the start and lost it to Jernberg as they had a fight through the first corner. Hansen went for the joker lap at once and started to chase the leader.
- I realized immediately that we had done a wrong tyre chose, Kenneth said. I had not expected that the track would try so quickly and I had put a tyre with too much grooves in it and I big problems getting any grip in the tarmac sections.
Grönholm did a strong drive again and was fastest in the round.
Heat 2.
1. Marcus Grönholm
2. Michael Jernberg
3. Tony Croon
4. Ludvig Hunsbedt
5. Andreas Eriksson
6. Kenneth Hansen
7. Harald Sachweh
8. Per Eklund
9. Kjell Arne Smerud
10. Sverre Isachsen
All results on www.erc24.com
TOP
Sweden, Höljes 2008-07-05
Kenneth won the first qualification heat!
Marcus Grönholm is impressive! After a 27:th place in time practice he started in an early heat and managed to produce a very good time with 3.09.11. Jean Luc Pailler started also early and was second after Grönholm. These two times was still on top as there was only three cars left to go. Isachsen on the inside, Hansen in the middle and Jernberg on the outside.
Hansen did a magnificent start and pulled away in the lead. Isachsen took the joker lap and Jernberg followed Hansen. On the first lap Hansen was a little slower than Grönholm, but on the second lap he raised his act and a made a brilliant drive. He came in on 3.07:79.
- Now we had found a set-up on the car that was better and I could push, Kenneth comments.
Hansen did a good tactic move and took the joker lap already on the second lap.
Jernberg finished second and Isachsen 14 after a big fight between the two.
Heat 1.
1. Kenneth Hansen
2. Marcus Grönholm
3. Jean-Luc Pailler
4. Ludvig Hunsbedt
5. Michael Jernberg
6. Andreas Eriksson
7. Guttorm Lindefjell
8. Stig-Olov Walfridson
9. Per Eklund
10. Frode Holte
All results see www.erc24.com
Sweden, Höljes 2008-07-05
Rain in the official timed practice in Höljes caused a bit of stress.
Kenneth had third time in the timed practice, but he was lucky to get one of the more drier runs. As the drivers for division 1 began to line up for the timed practice rain clouds gathered around the track and some rain fell making the conditions very difficult.
Marcus Grönholm who had shown splendid speed and been one of the fastest in the free practice had probably the worst weather making it impossible for him to match the other drivers later in the session. It got drier and drier for the rest of the drivers and they produced better and better times. Best was Sverre Isachsen on 44:81. Kenneth had 45:61 and has to find time to be able to fight for a good time in the qualification heats.
- Perhaps I was a little to careful at some parts of the circuit, Kenneth says. For sure I need to shape up and go faster. But at the same time I can not gamble too much as I have a championship to think about.
Official Timed Practice, div.1:
1. Sverre Isachsen
2. Ludvig Hunsbedt
3. Kenneth Hansen
4. Andreas Eriksson
5. Michael Jernberg
6. Morten Bermingrud
7. Ole Kristian Nöttveit
8. Stig-Olov Walfridsson
9. Per Eklund
10. Harald Sachweh
All results on www.erc24.com
Norway,Momarken 2008-06-29
Hansen leads the ERC again after a strong second place in Norway.
Kenneth Hansen the European Rallycross Championship again after a strong second place in Norway. The Norwegian Ludvig Hunsbedt won in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.
- It one feels fantastic! Kenneth says. Having the lead as we go to the Swedish round next weekend is great.
It was a dramatic A-final where it was an open affair until half a lap remained. It looked as it was the other Norwegian in the A-final, Sverre Isachsen, who went for an obvious victory with Hansen on second place. Even if it was Ludvig Hunsbedt that was first into the last lap he had still to do the joker lap and normally that is not enough to keep the lead with another car right on the bumper. But out on the last round Isachsen gets a puncture and almost stops. Hansen is forced to brake heavily and looses valuable seconds. During that time Hunsbedt gets back on the track still in the lead. Kenneth manages to find a way with his Citroen past the slowing Ford and finishes second behind Hunsbedt instead.
- It was a real thrill standing on the start of the A-final, Hansen says.
- All top-five drivers of the championship had earned a place in the A-final. Plus Stig-Olof Walfridson as an outsider in the gang. You could literally feel the heat in the air. Every one is so equal this season so it is like a war for each point.
Walfridson came in on fourth place, Andreas Eriksson fifth and Michael Jernberg, who was top of the leader board before this race finished sixth.
Last year Kenneth did his terrible crash here in Norway. At the speed of 150km/hour he rolled his car heavily and destroyed it completely. Thanks to the new Head-and Neck protection he survived the violent impact.
- It felt difficult and a bit scary the first laps to pass the place, Kenneth says. All memories came like a flash back in my head and it feels like a mental victory to have been able to do this race with such good result.
Now Hansen and the other ERC-drivers prepares for the Swedish round of the Championship in Höljes on July 5-6. A new spectator record is expected, with over 25000 persons wanting to see the World Rally Champions Marcus Grönholm making his Rallycross debut.
A-final Momarken:
1. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 20 p.
2. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 17 p.
3. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford 15 p.
4. Stig-Olof Walfridson (S) Renault 13 p.
5. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford 12 p.
6. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 11 p.
ERC standings after 5 of 11 rounds.
1. Kenneth Hansen – 78 p.
2. Michael Jernberg – 73 p.
3. Ludvig Hunsbedt – 67 p.
4. Andreas Eriksson – 59 p.
5. Sverre Isachsen – 59 p.
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Norway, Momarken 2008-06-29
Kenneth leads the Championship again after second place in Norway!
It was an interesting A-final as the top five drivers in the overall standings of the Championship had all qualified it. The only "outsider" was Waldridson who started on fourth place.
Kenneth did not do such a good start in the A-final as he got squeezed between Hunsbedt, Isachsen and Walfridson. He was second after the first corner. Hunsbedt Isachsen and Hansen had a remarkable speed and was in a class of their own. With one lap to go Hansen was third behind Hunsbedt in the lead and then Isachsen. The three was close and as HUnsbedt turned in for the jokerlap looked as it would end with Isachsen and Hansen over the finishline. But Isachsen had a puncture and almost stopped slowing Hansen down as well. That opened for Hunsbedt to regain his lead. Hansen managed to overtake Isachsen with only two corners to go and he finished second behind Hunsbedt. Walfridson was forth, Eriksson fifth and Jernberg sixth.
A-final.
1. Ludvig HUnsbedt
2. Kenneth Hansen
3. Sverre Isachsen
4. Stig-Olof Walfridson
5. Andreas Eriksson
6. Michael Jernberg
All results on www.erc24.com
Norway, Momarken 2008-06-29
Kenneth has 3:d start position in the A-final!
After a good third qualification round with a second place overall Kenneth is now ready for the A-final and he had third start position.
Ludvig Hunsbedt managed to win the third round ahead of Hansen.
- I did a couple of small mistakes and racing with Hunsbedt you can not afford that, Kenneth says.
HUnsbedt took pole position in the A-final followed by Sverre Isachsen and Hansen. Stecka Walfridson is fourth and Andreas Eriksson on fifth.
Michael Jernberg has pole position in the B-final
Heat 3
1. Ludvig Hunsbedt
2. Kenneth Hansen
3. Sverre Isachsen
4. Andreas Eriksson
5. Stig-Olof Walfridson
6. Michael Jernberg
7. Kjell Arne Smerud
8. Oliver Anne
9. Ole Kristian Nöttveit
10. Jean-Luc Pailler.
All results on www.erc24.com
For the finals:
A-final
1. Hunsbedt
2. Isachsen
3. Hansen
4. Walfridsson
5. Eriksson
6. Winner B-final
B-final
1. Jernberg
2. Nöttveit
3. Anne
4. Smerud
5. Pailler
6. Winner C-final
C-final.
1. Norkus
2. Hedström
3. Tracey
4. Hafsengen
5. Jespersen
6. Eklund
Norway, Momarken 2008-06-29
Kenneth was fifth in heat 2 despite several technical problems.
Kenneth was quickest into the first corner, but as he wanted to accelerate there was no power to the engine and Kenneth lost his position to Stig-Olof Walfridson.
Hansen faught back and after a splendid jokerlap he came out ahead of Ludvig Hunsbedt. As Stecka was on the joker Kenneth took the lead. But on the last lap Kenneth had difficulties to steer as both the from and the rear steering rack was broken after some close contacts iwth Hunsbedt and Stecka.
- I had fifth time despite all, Kenneth says. I had a couple of good laps in between my problems so I know I have found a good rythm here now.
In the last heat he will meet Hunsbedt, Nöttveit, Smerud and probably Jernberg as well.
1. Stig-Olov Walfridson 2.00:83
2. Ludvig Hunsbedt 2.01:57
3. Ole Kristian Nöttveit 2.02:20
4. Andreas Eriksson 2.02:44
5. Kenneth Hansen 2.02:67
6. Stian Hafsengen
7. Linas Norkus
8. Sverre Isachsen
9. George Tracey
10. Kjell Arne Smerud
All results see www.erc24.com
Norway, Momarken 2008-06-28
Another fourth time for Kenneth in the first qualification round.
It was a dramatic first corner in the second last heat of division 1. Kenneth was half a car ahead of Jernberg as they stormed away on the start straight. Walfridson, Pailler and Sachweh were also there and as Hansen and Jernberg fought a battle of their own in the first corner they choose to take the joker lap. Kenneth had the lead into the corner but was pushed wide by Jernberg. Hansen just manage to stay in the right direction as he was very wide, close to spin a around.
As the two stretched out on the second straight Hansen overtook Jernberg on the outside into the fast tarmac section. Hansen was leading until he went into the jokerlap. Then Michael was faster and he went on to win the heat.
Fastest time in the qualification round was Sverre Isachsen who had a close and hard fight with Ludvig Hunsbedt.
1. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford 2.01:72
2. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 2.02:08
3. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 2.02:43
4. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 2.02:74
5. Oliver Anne (F) Citroen C4 2.03:49
6. Jean-Luc Pailler (F) Peugeot 2.03:73
7. Peter Hedström (S) Ford
8. Kjell Arne Smerud (N) Citroen Xsara
9. Stig-Olof Walfridsson (S) Renault
10. Ole Kristian Nöttveit (N) Ford
All results on www.erc24.com
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Norway, Momarken 2008-06-28
Fourth time for Kenneth on the official timed practice!
As the cars lined up for the official timed practice in division 1 the rain came and a bit of chaos broke loose when the remaining drivers got the allowance to change tyres.
It was this annoying small rain cloud that made a quick visit and spreading insecurity among the teams. Will it rain more, will it stop and get dry???
First everyone changed for rain tyres but then it stopped raining and the sun came and the damp conditions switched back to dry. So.. everyone was back on slick tyres again as they finally lined up for
Ludvig Hunsbedt was fastest on his home circuit. He was followed by Michael Jernberg and then Andreas Ericsson. Kenneth was fourth but only 3,5 tenth behind the leader.
- It is the first time since my big crash here last year, Kenneth says. The first laps was feeling a bit strange but now I am so much into this race so I do not think about it anymore.
See all results and times from the official practice on www.erc24.com
Austria , Greinbach 2008.06.08
Hansen lost the championship lead after crash in B-final
Greinbach,
Kenneth Hansen lost his lead of the European Rallycross Championship to Michael Jernberg when the fourth round took place in Austria.
Hansen hit problems already in the qualification and when he was pushed from behind in the start of the B-final the chance to get into the top final was gone.
- I had a superb start, Hansen says. And I had the lead in my hand. The I just felt my car go in the opposite direction and out in the gravel trap.
When Hansen finally got back on the slippery track, due to the heavy rain, he was a bit angry. Even if he had good speed in the Citroen it was not easy to overtake in these conditions. As he caught Ludwig Hunsbedt and a cascade of water flushed over his windscreen he could not see anything.
Hansen finished third after Sverre Isachsen who won and also took the last place into the A-final.
Michael Jernberg went on to win the A-final. Before the race Jernberg was right behind Hansen in the overall standings. After only getting nine points Kenneth lost first place in the championship to Jernberg with one point.
The A-final was a dramatic fight where Andreas Eriksson in pole position also went off the track. Jean-Luc Pailler who lead the final had to retire with engine failiure and instead could Jernberg take a step forward and go home with victory.
Next ERC-race is in Norway in three weeks. Now things start to get close and the last two rounds in the first half will be very important.
Results in the A-final
1. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 20 p.
2. Ole Kristian Nöttveit (N) Ford 17 p.
3. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford 15 p.
4. Jean-Luc Pailler (F) Peugeot 13 p.
5. Guttorm Lindefjell (N) Ford 12 p.
6. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford 11 p.
B-final:
7. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 10 p.
8. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4. 9 p.
More information on www.hansen-motorsport.se or www.erc24.com
All photos below by www.erc24.com
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Austria , Greinbach 2008.06.08
Another poor heat for Kenneth as he finished seventh.
As the rained was making life difficult for the drivers Kenneth was one to suffer from the conditions.
He had the inside line again and it was not a good one for him. Kenneth lost the start. He overtook a couple of drivers, but was trapped behind Per Eklund and could not push as hard as he wanted.
1. Ole Kristian Nöttveit
2. Guttorm Lindefjell
3. Andreas Eriksson
4. Ludvig Hunsbedt
5. Michael Jernberg
6. Per Eklund
7. Kenneth Hansen
8. Jean-Luc Pailler
9. Stecka Walfridsson
10. Olivier Anne
TOP
Austria, Greinbach 2008.06.07
Only seventh place for Hansen in the first heat.
- For some reason I missed the start, Kenneth explains. I do not know why yet but we are going to look at the logging to see if we can understand what happened.
Kenneth finished third and was sixth overall. A result he was not happy with and he now hopes for a better outcome tomorrow.
1. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford
2. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford
3. Ole Kristian Nöttveit (N) Ford
4. Olivier Anne (F) Citroen C4
5. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda
6. Guttorm Lindefjell (N) Ford
7. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4
8. Morten Jespersen (DK) Peugeot
9. Per Eklund (S) Saab
10. Frode Holte (N) Volvo
All results on www.erc24.com
Photos: www.erc24.com
TOP
Austria, Greinbach 2008.06.07
Kenneth second on timed qualification after Jernberg.
Rain came just as Kenneth went out on the timed qualifcation in the Greinbach circuit.
- I did not suffer so much, Kenneth explains, but others did.
The car was fine and Kenneth was only beaten by Jernberg. The new engine in the C4 this year suits the Austrian circuit much better.
1. Michael Jernberg
2. Kenneth Hansen
3. Per Eklund
4. Sverre Isachsen
5. Ole Kristian Nöttveit
6. Ludvig Hunsbedt
7. Andreas Eriksson
8. Morten Jespersen
9. Olivier Anne
10. Stecka Walfridson
TOP
Hungary, Nyirad 2008-06-01
Kenneth Hansen on the top of the podium in Hungary!
Kenneth Hansen defended his pole position in the A-final in the best possible way when the third round of the European Rallycross Championship took place in a hot Hungary. After a flawless drive Hansen showed that he is stronger this year than he has been for a long time. He lead, more or less, from start to finish and took an evident victory, his first this season.
- It could not have turned out better, Hansen cheers and raises his arms in the air.
- First place here today and now also first in the Championship. Tonight we will celebrate. Champagne and a delicious dinner.
The A-final was a dramatic and exciting settlement even before the first meter. Sverre Isachsen, who was on the front row beside Kenneth, was a fraction to fast off the clutch and was caught with a jump start. As Jean-Luc Pailler already had done one and been given a warning, Isachsen was now excluded for doing a second one.
When the final left the start line Hansen was on his toes. He took his Citroen and with a determined drive he pulled away to create a gap down to Michael Jernberg.
- The extremely hot temperature in the car as we waited for the start was almost painful, Kenneth explains.
- I felt my strength was fading and I lost focus occasionally. I pulled myself together and gave everything I had on the first couple of laps. It was my only chance.
Michael Jernberg chased Hansen during the entire race except for the penultimate lap when Hansen took the joker lap. But with a good margin Hansen was back in front of Jernberg as he did his joker on the finishing lap.
Behind the top duo it was an intense fight between Frode Holte, Jean-Luc Pailler and Andreas Eriksson. Eriksson had won the B-final and made a good job and managed to squeeze himself up to third place ahead of Pailler and Holte on fifth.
Then it was three Swedes on the podium!!
For the first time ever one could follow the ERC action live on the Swedish channel TV4 Sport.
Next weekend it is time for another race and then the ERC-circus has moved to Austria and Greinbach. If you are not there yourself you can follow it on TV again.
A-final, Division 1, Hungary
1. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 – 20p.
2. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda – 17 p.
3. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford – 15 p.
4. Jean-Luc Pailler (F) Peugeot – 13 p.
5. Frode Holte (N) Volvo – 12 p.
6. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford – 11 p.
Overall standings after 3 of 11 rounds in the European Championship
1. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 52 p.
2. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 42 p.
3. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 37 p.
See more on www.erc24.com
All photos from Hungary by www.erc24.com
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First comment:
Hansen won the dramatic A-final in Hungary!
Kenneth Hansen defended his pole position and went on win the Hungarian round of the ERC!
Now he is in top of the leader board with 52 points. Jernberg 42 and Hunsbedt 37.
After a jump start drama where Sverre Isachsen, who was on the front row beside Hansen, got excluded for making the second jump start, the A-final took off.
Hansen did a splendid start and was in command as the field reached the first corner. Jernberg followed Hansen knowing that they would set the pace in this final.
Behind them it was a hard battle between Jean-Luc Pailler, Frode Holte and Andreas Eriksson.
On the second last lap Hansen, who learnt his lesson in Portugal, took the joker lap and letting Jernberg pass him. So as they did the last lap Kenneth could push and have Jernberg under control. When Jernberg attacked the joker lap Hansen knew where he had him and could with out mistakes take the last couple of corners and head for the checked flag.
Behind the two it was a hard fight between Pailler, Holte and Eriksson. As Holte had to retire with a battered car, Eriksson was the one to take third place. Pailler finished fourth.
1. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 20 p.
2. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 17 p.
3. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford 15 p.
4. Jean-Luc Pailler (F) Peugeot 13 p.
5. Frode Holte (N) Volvo 12 p.
6. Sverre ISachsen (N) Ford 11 p.
TOP
Hungary, Nyirad 2008-06-01
Hansen retired in third heat, but is in pole position in the A-final.
When Hansen saw that Sverre Isachsen spun and retired from the heat just before, he realized that pole position just had went to himself.
- I'm happy to get pole, Kenneth says, but at the same time it is a difficult situation as both first and second start position is good. I have not made up my mind yet, which I shall take.
The weather conditions are sunny and hot and barely no wind at all.
- I have to be careful, not to put to much strain on myself, Kenneth tells us as he fills up his water bottle again and sits down in the shadow.
Frode Holte took a sensational first place in round three. See all results from the third round at www.erc24.com.
So for the A-final we have the following line up:
1. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4
2. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford
3. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda
4. Jean-Luc Pailler (F) Peugeot
5. Frode Holte (N) Volvo
6. Winner B-final.
The leader of the Championship Ludvig Hunsbedt has retired from the race with a broken engine.
The same goes for Morten Bermingrud that suffered from a head gasket failure yesterday.
TOP
Hungary 2008-06-01
Second place in the second round for Hansen.
Again Hansen lost the start, This time it was Sverre Isachsen who was quicker off the line than Hansen. And Isachsen was fast.
- I felt I could not follow him has I should, Kenneth comments.
- We are looking into what can be done to make me be able to push the car harder next heat.
1. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford 3.14:49
2. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 3.16:82
3. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 3.18:35
4. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford 3.19:83
5. Ole Kristian Nöttveit (N) Ford 3.20:48
6. Jean-Luc Pailler (F) Peugeot
7. Frode Holte (N) Volvo
8. Morten Jespersen (DK) Peugeot
9. Zoltan Harsany (HU) Mitsubishi
10. Guttorm Lindefjell (N) Ford
See more information, times and photos from the action in Hungary on www.erc24.com
All the trailers with the TV equipment has arrived to prepare the live coverage this afternoon.
Watch TV4 Sport at 15:15 until 17:00 and you will get all the excitement and drama direct.
Hungary 2008-05-31
Hansen fastest in the first qualification round.
It was with the smallest of margins that Kenneth Hansen managed to take the best time in the first heat-session in the Hungarian round of the European Rallycross Championship in Nyirad.
Kenneth lost the start from his outside starting position (4:th). As they reached the first corner Lindefjell missjudged the situation and took both himself and Olivier Anne off the track. Kenneth found a gap on the inside and could take the lead and go on to win the heat.
Qualificatio round 1:
1. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 3.14:43
2. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 3.14:52
3. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford 3.15:31
4. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 3.15:70
5. Ole Kristian Nöttveit (N) Ford 3.16:55
6. Morten Bermingrud (N) Citroen Xsara 3.17:05
7. Jean-Luc Pailler (F) Peugeot 3.17:76
8. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford 3.18:69
9. Frode Holte (N) Volvo 3.19:09
10 George Tracey (IRL) Peugeot 3.20:52
TOP
Hungary 2008-05-29
European Rallycross Championship LIVE on Swedish TV4 Sport
On Sunday afternoon at 15:15 on the Swedish channel TV4 Sport it is première for the European Rallycross Championship to be broadcasted live.
- It is an important milestone for the sport and its future, says Kenneth and his driver colleges, Michael Jernberg, Andreas Eriksson and Per Eklund agree.
TV4 Sport will begin the programme with a summary of the three qualification rounds before it goes into live coverage when the finals start.
Rallycross, that is a fast, intensive and explosive motor sport has all the ingredients to be a success when done by a professional TV-production.
Hansen and the other top-drivers are in Hungary today on a press conference before this weekends race. It is the third round of the eleven in the Championship and it is clear that the line up is better than ever,
Kenneth Hansen gets out of his 4-wheel driven Citroen C4 with more than 500 horse powers. It is not a game to handle such a car, especially not when there are five more pilots there to fight. He says:
- It is man against man, it is violent cars, it is heat and adrenaline. It is racing when it is at its best. That is what we want to show the TV-spectators.
Links:
http://tvplaneten.se/1.311852?date=2008-06-01&view=full
www.erc24.com
Photo: Joao Lavadinho
Stig-Olov Walfridson, Kenneth Hansen, Michael Jernberg, Per Eklund, Jimmy Farsbo, Andreas Eriksson
Photo: Joao Lavadinho
Kenneth Hansen leads ahead of Andreas Eriksson and Ole Kristian Nöttveit. Portugal 2008
EM i Rallycross LIVE på TV4 Sport
På söndag eftermiddag klockan 15:15 på TV4 Sport är det världspremiär! För första gången någonsin kommer Rallycross-EM att direktsändas.
- Det är en viktig milstolpe för sporten och dess framtid, säger Kenneth Hansen och hans förarkollegor runt honom, Michael Jernberg, Andreas Eriksson och Per Eklund är helt eniga för en gångs skull.
TV4 Sport kommer att börja programmet med ett sammandrag av de tre kvalomgångarna innan det går över i live-sändning från och med finalerna.
Rallycrossen som är en snabb, intensiv och explosiv motorsport som har alla förutsättningar att med en professionell TV-produktion bli en succé.
Hansen och de andra i EM-toppen är i Ungern idag för pressvisning inför helgens lopp. Det är den tredje deltävlingen av säsongens elva och redan har det visat sig att startfältet är vassare än någonsin.
Kenneth Hansen kliver ur sin fyrhjulsdrivna Citroen C4 på över 500 hästkrafter. Det är ingen barnlek att ratta den här typen av bil speciellt inte när fem andra förare är med och krigar. Han säger:
- Det är man mot man, det är häftiga bilar, det är hetta och adrenalin. Det är racing när det är som bäst. Det är det vi vill visa TV-publiken.
Länkar:
http://tvplaneten.se/1.311852?date=2008-06-01&view=full
www.erc24.com
2008-05-26
Citroen Sport övertygade med C2-R2 Max både under och efter Sydsvenska Rallyt.
Citroen Sport kom med sin nya Citroen C2 R2 Max till Sydsvenska Rallyt och visade upp den nyutvecklade rallybilen på ett övertygande sätt. Med Europamästaren Simon Jean-Joseph vid ratten och Jack Boyère som co-driver kom de till Sverige för att marknadsföra en ny generations rallybil.
Paret blev fyra i klassen och hade som målsättning att ta sig igenom rallyt på ett bra sätt utan att ta alltför stora risker. Uppdraget från Citroen var tudelat, dels att få erfarenhet från grusrally för att kunna jobba vidare med bilen för detta underlag. Den andra uppgiften var att informera och tala om att Citroen Sport har gjort stora ansträngningar att bygga en riktig rallybil till en rimlig kostnad.
Simon Jean-Joseph och Jack Boyère hade bra fart och allteftersom rallyt fortskred kunde de öka tempot. Lagom till målgång på lördagen hade de blivit varma i kläderna och fransmannen hade börjat lära sig den speciella vägtyp vi har i Sverige.
På söndagen stannade teamet kvar i Ljungby och ihop med Citroen Sverige arrangerades en kostnadsfri co-drive brevid Jean-Joseph. Det var ett stort gäng som slöt upp denna soliga sommardag och fick en häftig upplevelse i den nya C2 R2:an. Inte mindre än 38 aktiva och blivande rallyförare samt en del journalister åkte med och när de, med skön puls och stort leende, klev ur bilen var alla mycket positiva till vad de sett och känt.
Bilen är fint balanserad och därför lättkörd. Motorn har bra effekt och bromsarna är imponerande effektiva.
Citroen Sports tanke med C2-R2:an har hela tiden varit att den ska var ett prisvärt och tillförlitligt alternativ att satsa på om man vill ha en rallybil att åka mycket med istället för att lägga tid och resurser på att skruva och reparera hemma i garaget.
För frågor och information kontakta Kenneth eller Susann Hansen, se nedan.
Susann Hansen
070-5906068 susann@hansen-motorsport.se
Kenneth Hansen
070-5906061 kenneth@hansen-motorsport.se
TOP
2008.05.11
FIA EUROPEAN RALLYCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP 2008
France, Kerlabo
Fine third place for Kenneth Hansen in France
After a lot of hard work Kenneth Hansen got third place in the French round of the European Rallycross Championship. The winner was the French driver Jean-Luc Pailler who was applauded by close to 20.000 fellow countrymen around the Circuit de Kerlabo. Second place went to Ludvig Hunsbedt.
- It was a difficult weekend; Kenneth summons his feelings after the race.
- I have been struggling with my driving rhythm and despite I was pushing hard it was tricky to find that last tenth of a second in speed.
In the qualification heats Hansen was fifth and sixth as best and had fifth position into the A-final.
In the start of the A-final Pailler took the lead at once ahead of Hunsbedt. Hansen went on the inside in the first corner and up behind Hunsbedt.
- But I was attacked from behind and flew into Ludvig, Kenneth explains. The front wheels were damaged and the car became nervous to drive.
- I choose to go for the joker lap immediately and start my chase from behind.
It turned out to be a fairly successful manoeuvre. Kenneth was third after a couple of laps but was overtaken by Guttorm Lindefjell with two laps to go. It seemed to be fourth place for Hansen but in the very last corner he took back his third place.
Michael Jernberg was right on Hansen’s tail and was fourth. David Meslier was fifth and Lindefjell sixth.
The President of the French Motor Sports Federation, Nicolas Deschaux, was there to watch and he gave both Rallycross and the race a lot of credit.
Hunsbedt leads the ERC standings after two rounds on 37 points with Hansen on 32.
Next event if the ERC is in Hungary in three weeks.
Photo: www.ERC24.com
Photo: www.ERC24.com
2008.05.11
European Rallycross Championship in France, Kerlabo
To the A-final
1. Hunsbedt
2. Pailler
3. Meslier
4. Jernberg
5. Hansen
6- Winner B-final
Qualification round 3
1. Michael Jernberg
2. Ludvig Hunsbedt
3. Guttorm Lindefjell
4. Sverre Isachsen
5. Kjell Arne Smerud
6. Jean-Luc Pailler
7. Kenneth Hansen
8. Andreas Eriksson
9. Marc Laboille
10. Frode Holte
11. Morten Bermingrud
12. Per Ekklund
More results on www.erc24.com
TOP
2008.05.11
European Rallycross Championship in France, Kerlabo
Qualification round 2
1. Ludvig Hunsbedt
2. Jean-Luc Pailler
3. David Meslier
4. Olivier Anne (F) Citroen C4
5. Morten Bermingrud (N) Citroen Xsara
6. Kenneth Hansen
7. Michael Jernberg
8. Morten Jespersen (DK) Peugeot
9. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford
10. Ole Kristian Nöttveit (N) Ford
This round Kenneth had difficulties pushing the car as hard as he wanted. A lot of understeer made him loose speed and with only two thousands of a second he beat Jernberg to sixth place.
- On the third lap I thought I was going to spin out, Kenneth says. I was completely sideways and I just down shifted and gave full throttle. I survived the situation but lost valuable time.
TOP
2008.05.10
European Rallycross Championship in France, Kerlabo
Qualification round 1
1. David Meslier (F) Renault
2. Jean-Luc Pailler (F) Peugeot
3. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo
4. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda
5. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4
6. S-O Walfridson (S) Renault
7. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford
8. Guttorm Lindefjell (N) Ford
9. Andreas Eriksson (S) Ford
10. Per Eklund (S) Saab
Photo: ERC24
Kenneth was a bit distracted as he was getting ready for the start of the first qualification round. Just as they showed the green flag a big insect flew just infront of Kenneths face and as he revved up the engine he had to kill the insect as well. Busy moment!
He came out fourth behind Pailler, Eriksson and Lindefjell. Lindefjell and Hansen took the jokerlap on the first lap. After two laps Kenneth overtook the Norwegian and could start chasing Eriksson and Pailler. First Kenneth past Eriksson as he made a mistake on the jokerlap. As they reached the finish line Kenneth had caught up well with Pailler and was only 10-20 meters behind.
TOP
2008.05.08
EUROPEAN RALLYCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP 2008
PRESS RELEASE, Portugal, 2008-05-04
Hansen on second place in the ERC opening in Portugal
Kenneth Hansen finished second after the Norwegian Ludvig Hunsbedt in the opening round of the ERC in Portugal. Perhaps not the place he had in mind when one lap remained of the final. He had pole position in the A-final. He made a perfect start and was leading from the first corner. He pulled away Ole Kristian Nöttveit, who was right behind him. So what happened?
- First of all I was driving too much on safety in the beginning of the race and then Hunsbedt had a better tactics with the joker lap than I had, Kenneth says.
- But of course I’m happy for my second place and knowing that we this year has found a winning concept and can be able to fight for the ERC-gold again.
The first round of the season has always an extra touch as it is the moment of truth if the hard work during the winter has paid off or not. There are often many pre-hand speculations and theories, but competition is competition and it is then the brutal reality comes around. There are many drivers that have winning potential this year and we will probably see one of the toughest seasons in a long time.
Kenneth, who always has liked it at the Lousada circuit, was quickest in the first two heats and took pole position.
- The car runs beautifully no and I feel comfortable in it, Kenneth says and knows that it was not the car but him who did a mistake in the final.
- I got a false feeling of safety up there in the lead and I did not see Hunsbedt closing in so fast.
Nöttveit was third in the final and took his first podium in the ERC ever. Sverre Isachsen was fourth. Michael Jernberg finished fifth while Per Eklund was sixth, entering the A-final by victory in the B-final.
24.320 spectators around the track got to enjoy both a warm and sunny weather and rallycross on the highest level as the ERC season took off.
Photos below by Joao Lavadinho or www.erc24.com
 Photo: Joao Lavadinho |
 Photo: Joao Lavadinho |
 Photo: Joao Lavadinho |
Photo: Joao Lavadinho |
 Photo: www.erc24.com |
 Photo: Joao Lavadinho |
| Photo: Joao Lavadinho |
 Photo: Joao Lavadinho |
 Photo: Hansen Motorsport |
 Photo: Hansen Motorsport |
 Photo: www.erc24.com |
 Photo: Joao Lavadinho |
 Photo: Joao Lavadinho |
 Photo: Joao Lavadinho |
2008.05.04
Kenneth finished second in Portugal after Ludvig Hunsbedt.
He had pole position in the A-final. He did a superb start. He was in the lead from the first corner. He was quick and pulled away from second man Ole Kristian Nöttveit.
So way did he finish second after Ludvig Hunsbedt?
- I think I did not push to my maximum during the first laps, Kenneth says. And then I did a mistake by taking the jokerlap on the last lap.
So what can I say. Hunsbedt was faster and he had a better tactics, so he won.
A-final, Lousada
1. Ludvig Hunsbedt (N) Volvo 20 p.
2. Kenneth Hansen (S) Citroen C4 17p.
3. Ole Kristian Nöttveit (N) Ford 15 p.
4. Sverre Isachsen (N) Ford 13 p.
5. Michael Jernberg (S) Skoda 12 p.
6. Per Eklund (S) Saab 11 p.
TOP
2008.05.04
A second fastest qualification for Kenneth and he is on pole position in the A-final
- I did a fine start and could take the lead into the first corner, Kenneth comments on the heat.
- I saw Nöttveit following me well and I knew if I just took it easy and didn't ant mistakes I could win it.
And with another fastest time in this round Kenneth is now in pole position in the A-final, as no-one can score a lower point than his 2.
1. Hansen 3.14.607
2. Hunsbedt + 0.755
3. Nöttveit +2.308
4. Isachsen +3.121
5 Bermingrud + 4.355
6. Walfridson + 4.564
7. Eriksson +5.176
8. Kuypers +5.396
9. Jernberg +6.044
10. Smerud +6.575
11. Eklund + 7.099
12. Ayrat + 7.495
Photo: Joao Lavadinho
Photo: Joao Lavadinho
Photo: Joao Lavadinho
Photo: Joao Lavadinho
TOP
2008.05.03
Kenneth was fastest in the first qualification round in Portugal
Kenneth opened the first qualification session with a win and he says:
- I am really happy! First I managed to take the start ahead of Nöttveit. I tried to keep my head cool and just push as hard as I could. He might have been slightly quicker in some corners, but instead I gained in others.
The mechanics had fixed the gearbox problems from earlier. The car looked steady and balanced on the circuit.
Stefan, Kenneth, Kennet, Richard, Vincent waiting for heat 1 to begin.
TOP
2008.05.03
The ERC season has started!
Kenneth Hansen was third in the official timed practice.
It was the Norwegian Ole Kristian Nöttveit that took a surprisingly quickest time in the first official timed practice of the season. He was followed by his fellow country man Ludvig Hunsbedt. Kenneth Hansen was third and comments:
- I had a very good time coming on the last lap, but just as I downshifted in the last corner the gearbox broke. Shame!
Kenneth was fasted on the last free practice and felt comfortable with the Citroen C4. His feeling so far is that the handling is much more to his driving style this year than earlier years.
The competition looks to be the worst for a long time. It was 12 drivers within the same second.
Official qualification:
1. Ole Kristian NÖTTVEIT (N) 36.966
2. Ludvig HUNSBEDT (N) + 0.690
3. Kenneth HANSEN (S) + 0.110
4. Guttorm LINDEFJELL (N) + 0.227
5. Koen PAUWELS (B) +0.493
6. Michael Jernberg (S) +0.519
7. Sverre Isachsen (N) +0.521
8. Jos KUYPERS (NL) +0.613
9. Per EKLUND (S)
10. Andreas ERIKSSON (S)
11. Morten BERMINGRUD (N)
12. Kjell Arne SMERUD (N)
13. George Tracey (IRL)
14. Rustam MINNIKHANOV (RUS)
The FIA European Rallycross Championship 2008
PRESS RELEASE, For free and immediate publishing
France, 2008-04-30
Kenneth Hansen faces a new ERC season
With the opening round of the ERC closing in and with increasing pulse Kenneth Hansen puts his hand on the last preparations. He and the team are in France to make the final adjustments on the Citroen C4 that hopefully will take him to a new ERC-gold.
- On Sunday we know if all our work during the winter has paid off, says Kenneth Hansen who at the moment is in Man-Hours to do engine tests. He explains:
- We have put a lot of effort to raise the level in the areas where we have lost ground and also tried to improve our game overall. We have been “only” second the past two years, so the way to deal with it was to work harder and be creative and innovative hoping to make the car more efficient. The French engine engineers have tested some last minutes changes with satisfaction. Now we are heading the last 1800 km down to Portugal.
The first ERC race is in Portugal this weekend. This year, consisting of 11 races, will be an interesting season for rallycross. The title fight looks to be a Scandinavian affair with at least three Swedish favourites, Kenneth Hansen, Michael Jernberg and Andreas Eriksson. But the trio seems to get hard competition from the Norwegian experienced drivers Sverre Isachsen, Morten Bermingrud and Ludvig Hunsbedt.
The French Citroen-colleague Olivier Anne, who made his ERC-debut last year, will surely also be strong. Other interesting names are of course Marcus Grönholm, Koen Pauwels and Jean-Luc Pailler. The rumours says the both Henning Solberg and Harry Rovanpära are about to enter the Rallycross scene during the season.
The question many are asking is how Kenneth still can find motivation after 13 ERC-golds.
- The answer is simple for me, Kenneth says. For the first and most important I feel we still are capable of winning. We enjoy finding new technical routes. And I really love to drive this car, it is like a wild animal that has an incredible power.
is delighted to invite you to discover the new
On Sunday May 25th 2008
Ljungby
Please confirm your attendance by email or fax latest Friday 9th May :
Lena.ericson@citroen.com – Fax : 08-474 53 95
More information through Lena at Citroen Sweden : 070-5750699
or Kenneth Hansen : 070-5906061 kenneth@hansen-motorsport.se
Please take your helmet and overall
Teamchefen Kenneth Hansen kramar om sina båda chaufförer efter premiären på Ring Knutstorp i Skåne. "De skötte sig jättebra, berömmer han. Det kommer att gå bättre och bättre för varje tävling".
Kenneth Hansen var imponerad av det han såg.
PRESS RELEASE
Götene 2008-01-09
Kenneth Hansen: - Now I’m tired of being second.
The last piece of the puzzle has now fallen into place and Kenneth Hansen can put on the helmet and push full throttle on his Citroen C4 with the ambition to regain the rallycross throne in 2008.
A few days ago it was clear that Citroen and Total will continue their cooperation of many years with the 13-times European Rallycross Champion, Kenneth Hansen.
- It feels really good! says a determined Hansen.
- The tough loss of the ERC-gold in the very last race in the Czech Republic last autumn has made the team and me more eager to get out there on the circuit and get revenge. I am honestly very tired of being second.
For the past two years Kenneth has lost the title to Lars Larsson in the last race of the season. Despite having such a good record in the history books with 13 gold and 6 silver medals in 19 years Kenneth is still hungry and perhaps even more now as he has been so close recently.
Citroen Sports legendary leader, Guy Fréquelin, has retired after many unforgettable years. Now we look instead with confidence forward to have another highly respected motor sport profile, Olivier Quesnel, taking Citroen to further successes.
Citroen Sport and Total will together with the other faithful Hansen-team sponsors, for example Sachs, Lemförder and Cedex to commit to a new season.
The speed was there all the time during last year, but several small problems caused the loss. Now it is a new fresh year with new deals. The hope is to have a constant high level of the results in each race. That has given the team the strength to try to get the ERC-gold back.
2008 will have one more race on the European Championship calendar and will consist of 11 rounds. The first performance will traditionally take place in Portugal in the beginning of May.
The 2008 race calendar for Kenneth Hansen
F.I.A. European Championship for Rallycross Drivers
See official results at http://www.fia.com/sport/Championships/Secondary/2008/rallycross.html
or see www.erc24.com
| Month | Date | Place | Championship | Round |
| May | 3-4 | Portugal, Lousada | EC | 1 |
| 10-11 | France, Kerlabo | EC | 2 | |
| 17-18 | ||||
| 24-25 | ||||
| June | 31/5- 1/6 | Hungary, Nyirad | EC | 3 |
| 7-8 | Austria, Greinbach | EC | 4 | |
| 14-15 | ||||
| 21-22 | ||||
| 28-29 | Norway, Momarken | EC | 5 | |
| July | 5-6 | Sweden, Holjes | EC | 6 |
| 12-13 | ||||
| 19-20 | ||||
| 26-27 | ||||
| August | 2-3 | |||
| 9-10 | Belgium, Maasmechelen | EC | 7 | |
| 16-17 | Holland, Valkenswaard | EC | 8 | |
| 23-24 | ||||
| 30-31 | ||||
| September | 6-7 | Czech Republic, Sosnova | EC | 9 |
| 13-14 | Poland, Sclomcyn | EC | 10 | |
| 20-21 | ||||
| 27-28 | ||||
| October | 4-5 | Germany, Buxtehude | EC | 11 |
EC = FIA European Rallycross Championship
Point scoring regulations for the FIA European Rallycross Championship
The 11 races are divided into two halves. The first five races in the first half and the next six races in to second half.
From the first half 4 races out of 5 shall be taken into account for the overall standings.
From the second half 5 races out of 6 shall be taken into account for the overall standings.
The points are divided to the 16 first drivers as follows, where the winner gets the highest points:
20-17-15-13-12-11-10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1
(Link to 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009)
