Last weekend in Mons, Belgium, motorsport enthusiasts were treated to an exhilarating showcase of speed and skill as two prestigious championships unfolded: the UIM F4 World Championship and the UIM Endurance Class S3 World Championship.
F4 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP:
The action kicked off with the UIM F4 World Championship, attracting 25 drivers from 13 diverse nations to Mons. Qualifying sessions were divided, setting the stage for fierce competition. Defending champion Jarno Vilmunen claimed pole position.
Race 1 saw Finnish driver Jarno Vilmunen seize an impressive victory, showcasing his prowess from the starting line.
In an intense second race, Norwegian Andre Solvang triumphed once more, edging out newcomer Noel Vanttinen from Finland, who navigated his black and orange Lönnberg boat with unwavering determination.
French racer Jean-Baptiste Thomas clinched a podium spot in the Overall Standings after delivering two consistently strong third-place finishes in the opening races of the season.
With the next race scheduled for Klaipeda, Lithuania in August, and the European Championship in Imatra, Finland preceding it, anticipation for the upcoming battles intensifies.
ENDURANCE CLASS S3:
The Endurance S3 races were brimming with excitement as 14 teams from Belgium, Estonia, France, Poland, Spain, and Sweden converged in Mons. Six different teams graced the podium across Saturday and Sunday evenings, adding to the thrill of the competition.
As the Championship progresses, the title race remains wide open. The final showdown will take place in the traditional venue of Augustow, Poland, on 21st-23rd June. Currently, Team Slepsk (POL), Team Inshore Performance (FRA), and Riga Powerboat Team (LAT/EST) share the top spot in the Overall Standings with 26 points each post-Mons.
The ranking is very close, with Wiberg Racing (SWE) and Monsnauteam II (BEL) closely trailing behind, just 6 points adrift from the leading pack.
The Championship now moves to Poland in Augustow on the 21-23 June 2024, promising another thrilling round of competition in the Augustow waters.