22 September 2025, Ronalds

Round eight of the 2025 FIA European Autocross Championship, brought an unforgettable weekend of passion and adrenaline to the legendary Saint-Igny-de-Vers circuit!  Heart-stopping duels, unexpected plot twists, and breathtaking finishes turned the French track into a true arena of motorsport drama!

Super Buggy: Nikodem Unstoppable, but the Chase Continues

In the Super Buggy class, Czech driver Petr Nikodem once again proved to be untouchable. At one stage it seemed that Dutchman Mike Bartelen could challenge him, showing impressive pace on the slippery track. But as soon as Bartelen closed in, Nikodem unleashed his speed and pulled away decisively. Zdenek Antony finished third, slipping further behind in the standings – now 13 points adrift of Nikodem. With two rounds left, however, the title fight is far from over.

Championship Standings (Top 3):

1. Petr Nikodem – 210 pts

2. Zdenek Antony – 197 pts

3. Robert Theuil – 165 pts

Buggy 1600: Mandel’s Triumphant Return Sparks Title Drama

The Buggy 1600 category delivered fireworks, as Rene Mandel returned to St. Igny de Vers with a commanding victory. Former champion Timo Pahler, making his comeback after a career pause, impressed with second place. Current championship leader Jakub Novotny claimed third, but Mandel’s win has blown the title fight wide open. With just six points separating Novotny and Mandel, the final two rounds promise a nail-biting showdown.

Championship Standings (Top 3):

1. Jakub Novotny – 206 pts

2. Rene Mandel – 200 pts

3. Rudy Van Buren – 139 pts

Junior Buggy: Chaos, Breakthroughs, and a New Title Battle

The Junior Buggy final was nothing short of chaotic. After a frantic start, Tijme Groot grabbed the early lead but fell back after several costly mistakes. Local hero Malone Feuillade seized the opportunity, powering to victory in front of his home crowd. Eliska Plna crossed the line in second, while Bram Cuenen celebrated his first-ever European Championship podium with third. Feuillade’s triumph catapulted him from third in the standings to a share of the championship lead alongside Ladislav Hanak—setting up an electrifying climax to the season.

Championship Standings (Top 3):

1. Malone Feuillade – 198 pts

2. Ladislav Hanak – 198 pts

3. Martin Kolomy – 188 pts

CrossCar: Chinchilla Holds His Nerve as Battle Tightens

In CrossCar, Ivan Pina Chinchilla once again reigned supreme, fending off David Meat, who eventually slipped to third. Vincent Mercier took full advantage, securing second place. The result means that the championship duel between Chinchilla and Meat remains razor-thin, with just six points separating them. Meanwhile, Mercier is now closing in on Yoann Gillouin in the fight for third overall.

Championship Standings (Top 3):

1. Ivan Pina Chinchilla – 210 pts

2. David Meat – 204 pts

3. Yoann Gillouin – 181 pts

Merci, Saint-Igny-de-Vers – Next Stop: Mollerussa!

A heartfelt thank you to the organizers, teams, and incredible fans in Saint-Igny-de-Vers, who turned round eight of the 2025 FIA European Autocross Championship into a truly unforgettable celebration of motorsport. The French circuit echoed with roaring engines, fearless battles, and an atmosphere that kept everyone on edge until the very last lap.

Now the spotlight shifts to Spain, as the championship continues in Mollerussa on October 11–12. Expect another weekend of pure adrenaline, dramatic showdowns, and decisive moments as the road to the European crown grows ever more intense!