Team Abu Dhabi Al Qemzi And Al Mansoori Clinch Top Spots In Grand Prix Of Norway

Rashed Al Qemzi of Team Abu Dhabi secured a decisive victory in the Grand Prix of Norway, enhancing his pursuit of a fifth UIM F2 World Championship title. The reigning champion led from start to finish, with his teammate Mansoor Al Mansoori finishing second, propelling Al Qemzi to the top of this year's championship standings.

The two Emirati drivers showcased their prowess by securing the top two positions in qualifying. This performance highlighted Al Qemzi's undeniable skill and demonstrated that Al Mansoori is also a formidable contender. Starting from pole position, Al Qemzi quickly established a five-second lead over Al Mansoori, with Sweden's Mathilda Wiberg in third place.

A yellow flag interrupted the race after seven laps, but it did not hinder Al Qemzi's momentum. Britain's early championship leader, Matthew Palfreyman, was towed out before the restart. However, four-time champion Al Qemzi swiftly regained his commanding lead once the race resumed.

Al Qemzi's weekend was impeccable; he won Friday night's match race and set the fastest time in Saturday's free practice before securing pole position in the qualifying shootout. He finished the race with more than five seconds to spare over his teammate, who comfortably held off Wiberg for the final podium spot.

This victory marked Al Qemzi's first career win in Norway and could be crucial as he aims to become the first driver to win the F2 world title five times. He had previously finished third in Tønsberg on his way to his first F2 crown in 2017 and was champion again two years later after four race victories and a second-place finish in Norway.

Team Abu Dhabi remains focused on further improvements ahead of round three in Klaipėda, Lithuania, scheduled for August 16-17. The season will continue with the Italian Grand Prix in September, followed by a doubleheader in Portugal.

Al Qemzi's third world title came in 2021 after a double Grand Prix success in Portugal. Last year, three more race victories secured him his fourth world title with one round remaining. Despite their recent successes, Team Abu Dhabi is not complacent and aims to maintain their competitive edge throughout the season.

"It was an excellent team effort," said Al Qemzi. "We worked hard all weekend and it paid off." His consistent performance underscores his determination to make history by clinching a fifth world title.