The World RX of Finland 2025 delivered a nail-biting finale on 24 August at the redesigned KymiRing, where Ole Christian Veiby snatched victory by less than three-tenths of a second over his Kristoffersson Motorsport team-mate and championship leader Johan Kristoffersson.
The final brought drama from the very first corner. Niclas Grönholm, racing in front of a passionate Finnish crowd, made a lightning start in his CE Dealer Team car, but contact in Turn Two ended his hopes on lap one. The setback dealt a heavy blow to his title challenge.
From the chaos emerged Juha Rytkönen, Finland’s fan favourite, who stormed into the lead in his sustainably-fuelled Hyundai i20. Veiby and Kristoffersson quickly gave chase, while the Hansen brothers – Kevin and Timmy – stayed in the mix.
Veiby’s clever early joker strategy paid off, allowing him to pressure the leaders while Kristoffersson fought through the field. In the closing laps, the seven-time world champion tried everything to overturn his team-mate’s advantage, but Veiby held firm to secure his second career World RX victory.
Podium Drama and Penalties
- 1st: Ole Christian Veiby 🇳🇴 (Kristoffersson Motorsport)
- 2nd: Johan Kristoffersson 🇸🇪 (Kristoffersson Motorsport)
- 3rd: Kevin Hansen 🇸🇪 (Hansen World RX Team)
Rytkönen initially celebrated a podium on home soil, but a post-race penalty for his lap one contact with Grönholm demoted him to fifth. That handed third to Kevin Hansen, with Timmy Hansen promoted to fourth.
Championship Shake-Up
The result widened Kristoffersson’s lead in the standings, stretching his advantage over Grönholm from 7 to 15 points heading into the double-header finale in Türkiye (20–21 September). Veiby’s win also elevated him to third in the championship, just four points off Grönholm.
Driver Reactions
“It feels fantastic to get another win! The final was crazy, but I stayed close, used the joker well, and came out in front. Another 1-2 for the team and very important points for both me and Johan.”
Ole Christian Veiby:
“I struggled at the start, but Ole drove really well. Another 1-2 for KMS and the cars have been running perfectly all weekend.”
Johan Kristoffersson:
“Finally, some silverware this season! It’s been a rollercoaster week, but the team deserves this podium. Huge thanks to CE Dealer Team and Volvo Construction Equipment for their support.”
Kevin Hansen:
With the title battle now finely poised, all eyes turn to Istanbul Park for the season finale. Will Kristoffersson seal an eighth crown, or can Grönholm and Veiby upset the reigning champion in Türkiye?