This weekend’s FIA European Rally Championship Junior finale in Latvia represents arguably the most significant period of Chris Ingram’s career so far – not to mention one of the most challenging.
The 22-year-old Mancunian has established a commanding 31-point lead over nearest rival and Opel teammate Marijan Griebel, following five consecutive podium finishes.
Only a Griebel victory in the final round can prevent the Andrews-sponsored driver from sealing the title, with the best four scores from six counting towards each driver’s finishing position. Any other result will see Chris crowned European champion, winning the coveted prize-drive in Cyprus.
Speaking in the build-up to what will be a testing three days, he said: “I’m finding it difficult to sleep because of the anticipation for what will probably one of the most important rallies of my career.
“I have worked and dreamed about winning a FIA rally title since I was a young boy spectating on rallies.
“We have a lot of confidence from our win at Barum a few weeks ago so I need to stay focused and do the job again in Latvia. Repaying Opel, Andrews Sykes, and all of my supporters by winning the championship and taking a sixth consecutive podium from the six rounds would be amazing!”
Around 75,000 spectators are expected to attend the rally, with many hoping to catch a glimpse of some of the local heroes participating. Proceedings will also be broadcasted to an international audience – expected to be in the region of 320 million – via the Eurosport television channel.
Everyone at Andrews Sykes would like to wish Chris the very best of luck this weekend and hope he returns to the UK safely with the ERC trophy!