Ex VAT
Inc VAT
Menu

Åhlin’s new ERC adventure

0 Comments

Åhlin’s new ERC adventure

Fredrik Åhlin has chosen the FIA European Rally Championship for his next challenge, stepping up from a successful season in the UK to bid for ERC Junior Under 28 category honours in 2018.

Co-driven by fellow Swede Joakim Sjöberg, Åhlin is set to contest a full roster of ERC events in a LeoVegas World Rally Team ŠKODA Fabia R5, run by CA1 Sport.

The 26-year-old driver will start his ERC adventure on the Azores Airlines Rallye from 22-24 March, having spent the last two seasons as a frontrunner in the MSA British Rally Championship.

“I had already decided before the last round of the British Championship last year that I wanted a new challenge in 2018,” said Åhlin. “Even though we lost the title by only one point, which was a hard ending, I am proud of what I achieved and I am so excited to start a new season in a new championship.”

With zero experience of the eight events that will make up the 2018 ERC calendar, Åhlin has tackled three rallies in his homeland in recent weeks – taking a win and a third – as he and Sjöberg bid to remain sharp.

“It started really well with an overall victory at the opening round of the Swedish championship,” added Åhlin. “Unfortunately we had to retire at Rally Sweden with technical issues. But every single kilometre me and Joakim could get together in a rally car was so important. Even though the outcome of Rally Sweden wasn’t what we hoped for, it was still a very productive few weeks.

“I can’t thank enough everyone who has supported us to be able to do this year’s programme. It is not a secret that this wouldn’t be possible without the support from sponsors, friends and family. One thing is sure, we will enjoy every second of this year and I feel very motivated and focused on doing a good job and to collect valuable experience for new adventures in the future.”

Åhlin wears a Stilo WRC DES 8860 supplied by Nicky Grist Motorsports.