Rickard Rydell expects close season end

Four races remain of the Scandinavian Touring Car Championship. Rickard Rydell heads to the races at Karlskoga this weekend two points from championship leader Fredrik Ekblom.
“We have got an intense period ahead of us with race every second weekend and judging by the season so far, it is going to be really close right to the end,” said Rydell.

Rydell’s main rivals for the title this year is Volkswagen driver Ekblom and Volvo driver Tommy Rustad. While only two points separate Rydell and Ekblom, Rustad is trailing a further 31 points behind.

“I am pleased with the season so far. Fredrik Ekblom is doing a great job in the biogas car and Tommy Rustad can catch us up with a couple of strong results. Then there will be a couple of other drivers fighting for victories, especially Richard Göransson,” said Rydell.

Rydell has never before raced at Karlskoga and will get important time on the official STCC test on thursday.

“During my time in the Swedish F3 we only tested here, just like with Chevrolet so far. Anyway I believe we have a good chance of maintain our good form in the second half of the championship,” said Rydell.

Rydell is going to face an old enemy this weekend in the form of former WTCC champion Gabriele Tarquini who replaces James Thompson at Volvo.

“James Thompson leaving Volvo is of course disappointing, but at the same time it is great that Gabriele joins us for at least two races. We have raced a lot together and against each other during the years…” said Rydell.