McConnell opens RallyX series with podium finish

Montalegre, Portugal:

FRASER MCCONNELL began his 2025 RallyX Euro Series campaign at Montalegre, Portugal, this past weekend. The 13-round series, taking place across seven venues in Europe from March to August, saw McConnell make a strong debut in both a new car and on new track conditions.

In Round 1, McConnell advanced to the finals in both the FC2 Class and the Open 4WD Pro Class. He finished fifth in the FC2 Class and secured second place in the Open 4WD Pro Class, a notable achievement, given the new conditions.

“It was a new car and a new track, so I had to learn quickly,” McConnell said.

“To walk away with a podium in my first weekend under these conditions is definitely a strong start.”

McConnell carried his momentum into Round 2, posting the second fastest times in Q1 and Q2, and third fastest in Q3, placing him second overall in the Open 4WD Pro Class after qualifying. However, during the semi-final, he started from pole position but was edged out at the first corner. He then battled from third but was taken out by another competitor. Despite recovering, he finished fifth, narrowly missing the final.

Following rapid repairs, McConnell started the FC2 Final in second position, but mechanical issues affected his performance. He finished fourth in the FC2 final, later discovering that a failing turbo caused power loss.

“Missing out on a podium finish on Sunday was disappointing, considering the strong starting position earned from the qualifying races, but that is motorsports,” McConnell reflected.

“Also, considering it was my first weekend in this car and my first time racing in Portugal, I’m happy with my performance and confident of a very good showing in the remaining rounds.”

McConnell now turns his attention to Round 2 of the RallyX Euro Series, set for the Netherlands from April 26-27.

RallyX 2025 Schedule:

Rounds 1&2 – March 29-30 in Portugal

Rounds 3&4 – April 26-27 in the Netherlands

Rounds 5&6 – May 9-10 in Latvia

Rounds 7&8 – June 14-15 in Finland

Rounds 9&10 – June 28-29 in Sweden

Rounds 11&12 – August 2-3 in Denmark

Round 13 (finale) – August 9-10 in Germany