Despite winning the FC2 final on Sunday, Tommi Hallman saw his remarkable run of 23 consecutive podium finishes come to an end at Montalegre. A slight frustration, no doubt, but one that didn’t stop the Finnish driver from putting in a top performance.
Hallman, alongside Ulrik Linnemann, was the only driver to post three fastest times during the qualifying heats.. He also made his mark in terms of pure speed, posting the fastest lap three times during the weekend.
At the end of the Montalegre double-header, Hallman was the second fastest driver in the Open 4WD category, trailing Oliver Eriksson by just 0.021 seconds per lap in both races.
Impressive statistics, certainly – but it’s worth noting that Hallman had to remain patient after being knocked out in the semi-finals of both Open 4WD rounds.
“My pace was solid throughout the weekend, especially on Sunday when I managed to win all three qualifying heats,” explained Hallman.
“It’s frustrating because we had the speed to win on Saturday too, but little setbacks kept getting in the way. However, to finish the weekend with a win in the FC2 final gives us plenty of positives to build on. Whether it’s the car or the driver, we’re definitely in the mix.”
“We didn’t get the strategy right on Saturday and I got stuck behind a slower driver. I lost a lot of time trying to overtake him and that ultimately cost me a podium place. On Sunday, I had a great start in the semi-final and took the lead out of turn one, but the battle was so intense that I had no choice but to push hard. Unfortunately I hit a rut and the tyre came off the rim. At that point my only hope was that others in front of me would get into trouble so that I could make it to the final.”
Hallman didn’t have to wait long to get back on his feet. Just minutes later he was dominating the FC2 final from start to finish.
“Starting from pole, I immediately took control of the race. The pace was excellent and nobody could match it. The finish was perfect and this win feels really good. The team has done a fantastic job, especially in improving the handling of the car since our last appearances in the US in Nitrocross.”
There’s no doubt that Hallman will look back on his time at Montalegre with fondness.
“Overall this weekend at Montalegre was a really positive experience. There were a lot of fans, especially on Sunday, and it really brought back the old school rallycross atmosphere that’s been missing in recent years. The atmosphere in the paddock was great and the crowd came out in force. Hats off to the organisers for putting on such a great show and a big thank you to the fans for turning out in such large numbers”
With the next round at Valkenswaard just around the corner, Hallman has his sights set firmly on breaking new ground.
“So far, no FC2 car has managed to win a final in the Open 4WD category – but I fully intend to change that in the coming weeks”