Andersson Claims Victory in China, Takes Lead in UIM F1H2O World Championship
Sweden’s Jonas Andersson triumphed in the Grand Prix of Zhengzhou today, propelling him to the top of the 2024 UIM F1H2O World Championship standings. With just one round remaining, the championship is set for a thrilling conclusion in Sharjah this December.
The race was filled with dramatic incidents, with Team Abu Dhabi’s Thani Al Qemzi forced to retire early due to technical issues. Meanwhile, Canadian rookie and former championship leader Rusty Wyatt, driving for Sharjah Team, suffered mechanical problems that ended his race after just 14 laps. A collision between Erik Stark and Ahmad Al Fahim also knocked out both Victory Team boats, adding to the high-profile casualties.
Andersson’s win today, his 15th career Grand Prix victory, gives him a three-point lead over Wyatt heading into the final round. The defending world champion is now in prime position to secure another title after a dominant performance, finishing almost ten seconds ahead of France’s Peter Morin, who took second place, while Finland’s two-time world champion Sami Selio claimed the third spot on the podium.
For Team Abu Dhabi, the race brought more disappointment. Al Qemzi, who has two previous race wins in China, retired after just two laps. His teammate, Rashed Al Qemzi, a five-time F2 world champion, was unable to start the race due to issues stemming from a sprint race mishap the day before.
Wyatt, who has had a stellar debut season with wins in Indonesia, Sardinia, and Shanghai, will look to recover and challenge Andersson for the championship on home waters in Sharjah.
The penultimate round in Zhengzhou started with a chaotic opening lap, which saw Stark and Al Fahim crash out, and American Brent Dillard barrel-rolling to an early exit. Despite the early setbacks for several competitors, Andersson’s victory places him in control heading into the final round.
The 2024 UIM F1H2O World Championship standings now see Andersson leading with 99 points, Wyatt close behind with 96, and Morin moving into third with 79.5 points. The final showdown in Sharjah promises to be a fitting end to a thrilling season.
2024 UIM F1H2O World Championship standings:
- Jonas Andersson (SWE) - 99 points
- Rusty Wyatt (CAN) - 96 points
- Peter Morin (FRA) - 79.5 points
- Erik Stark (SWE) - 77.5 points
- Bartek Marszalek (POL) - 64 points
- Sami Selio (FIN) - 52 points
- Marit Stromoy (NOR) - 42 points
- Stefan Arand (EST) - 34.5 points
- Ferdinand Zandbergen (NED) - 30.5 points
- Thani Al Qemzi (UAE) - 27.5 points
