Rashed Al Qemzi Aims to Strengthen Title Bid in Norway
Team Abu Dhabi's Rashed Al Qemzi is gearing up to enhance his pursuit of a record fifth UIM F2 World Championship title as the series makes its return to Norway this weekend after a five-year hiatus.
Following three days of intensive testing in Italy this week, defending champion Al Qemzi and teammate Mansoor Al Mansoori are determined to recover from a challenging start to the season in Brindisi last month, where they faced technical difficulties.
Under the guidance of team manager Guido Cappellini, the mechanics have been preparing diligently in San Nazzaro to ensure both drivers and their boats are in optimal condition for the Grand Prix of Norway in Tønsberg on Sunday.
"It wasn't the start we wanted, but that's behind us now, and we expect to be in a much better position to challenge for the win this weekend," said Al Qemzi, who managed a sixth-place finish in the first round, while Al Mansoori faced an early retirement.
"Everyone has been working very hard to make sure we have the chance to get the results we want and know we can achieve together," Al Qemzi added. "We know our team can get the best out of our boats, and as drivers, we have to make sure that we match their hard work and get the best out of ourselves."
The championship is currently led by Britain's Matthew Palfreyman, who is back in action after a long break from powerboat racing, followed by Lithuania's Edgaras Riabko and Portugal's Duarte Benavente.
Al Qemzi, who finished second in Tønsberg the last time the championship visited in 2019, remains confident about adding to his four F2 world titles this season despite the fierce competition.
"You could see in Brindisi that there are a lot of good drivers who want to win, and it will be very difficult for anyone to take the championship this year," he remarked. "I want to be in a good position to go for the win on Sunday, and Mansoor wants to be there with me, fighting for the points. So, the first target is to be on the pace when qualifying starts on Saturday and build from there."
