Women’s World Cup: Hannah Grunwald once again the fastest in speedway

Following a two-day training camp, the Women’s World Cup final and the final of the FIM Women’s Gold Trophy in the 250cc class took place in Donji Kraljevec – also known in the world of motor racing as Gorican – just as they did last year. First, under the guidance of FIM race directors Glenn Phillips and Phil Morris – supported by former GP rider Matej Zagar – the women underwent two days of intensive training, which was very well received by the participants.

“We spent two days at the academy with brilliant coaches,” said Celina Liebmann. “In Matej Zagar, we had a coach who gave us fresh inspiration and a different perspective on racing. The coaches gave me tips I’d never heard before – I’m really thrilled.”

In the race itself, in which ten women from seven nations took part, Liebmann got off to a perfect start with an opening victory over Hannah Grunwald and remained unbeaten until she faced the defending champion again in the fourth heat. In the final block of the twelve heats, Grunwald then turned the tables and defeated the Bavarian, meaning the two Germans went into the final as the top-scorers with eleven points each.

In the final, it was Grunwald who put her opponent in her place and successfully defended her title as women’s world champion. “It’s hard to believe that the two-day Academy and the race are already over,” said the Parchim native, summing up her stay in Croatia. “I was able to try out lots of new things and gain experience. Standing at the very top of the podium makes me happy. I’ve successfully defended my title and I’m very proud of myself and my team. Thank you to everyone who organised this and supported me along the way.”

The third German competitor, Alina Zimmermann, got off to a good start in the race with three points, but then suffered a disqualification and a retirement. In the 250cc class, the Gold Trophy was contested, with Britain’s Demi Blu Harris winning undefeated ahead of Ruby Chapman and Lenja Tebbe.