Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals 2012
This year the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals is taking place at the Kartodromo Internacional Algarave, Portugal. Located on the countries glorious southern coastline the challenging circuit will play host to over 300 drivers from all around the world.
Representing Team UAE this year will be Sanad and Abdullah Al Rawahi, Oliver George, Mohammed Al Dhaheri and seasoned karting veteran Maurits Knopjes. Knopjes has been Team UAE’s most successful driver over the last 4 years, narrowly missing out on winning the DD2 world championship in 2009 and finishing 8th in last years world title showdown at Al Ain Raceway.
This year he is more determined than ever to make the top step of the podium. “I was testing in Portugal last month to gain knowledge of the circuit and the kart I will be using this week for the main event.
“To win the DD2 Master class this year will take a very precise and fast drive. I will obviously need to stay out of trouble and maybe hope for a bit of luck. Last year I was expecting to reach the top 10 and hopefully win. This year when I close my eyes I see myself winning the race, anything else will be a disappointment.â€
Local hero Mohammed Al Dhaheri is also hoping for a good showing. Al Dhaheri is recognised as one of the best kart drivers in the UAE and has represented Team UAE on the world stage for the last 2 years. However he has been plagued by bad luck in the previous campaigns and this time is hoping for a turn in fortune. He said “2010 was new for me, racing in Italy with such a big grid and of course last year I was on home territory. Both times I had bad luck but I admit I was perhaps too cautious when trying to stay out of trouble.
“This year I come prepared with more experience and will adopt a more aggressive strategy in order to make up ground. I cannot say for certain if I can win but I will give it my all and aim for the top 10. I will not let the UAE down.â€
The Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals is taking place this week in Portugal. The world titles for each class will be determined on Saturday. More updates with Team UAE’s progress will be forthcoming.
Martin Fullard
Emirati hopeful Mohammed Al Dhaheri
