The second round of the 2025 Rotax MAX Challenge Euro Trophy got underway under sunny skies at the Steel Ring in Trinec, Czech Republic — a new addition to the RMCET calendar. The technical nature of the 1.3 km circuit set the stage for intense wheel-to-wheel action throughout the day.
Setting the pace: qualifying results
Strong performances across all five categories marked the first competitive day at the Czech venue, with several new names and familiar faces emerging at the top.
Mini MAX – Murro leads the way
Riley Murro (Sam Pollitt Racing) posted the overall fastest time in qualifying, topping the charts in the opening session. Meanwhile, KRT Racing Team’s Mathias Drexler delivered a surprise performance to lead Group 2.
In the first heat of the weekend, it was Alfie Mair (SFR Motorsport) who came out on top, just ahead of Murro, setting up a tight battle for Sunday.
Junior MAX – Ashcroft on a mission
Continuing his strong form from Wackersdorf, Jacob Ashcroft (Dan Holland Racing) was once again the benchmark in Junior MAX, securing pole position in Group 1. Group 2 went to Slovakian driver Branislav Rentka (KRK Racing Team), who impressed in his first RMCET appearance of the year.
Ashcroft took a commanding win in the opening heat, while current championship leader Cole Denholm added another victory to his tally in the second.
Senior MAX – Bishop times it right
Macauley Bishop (Dan Holland Racing) left it late to grab overall pole position, setting the fastest lap in the third and final group. Alan Kluza (JR Racing) had been the provisional leader until Bishop’s final sector edged him off the top.
In the heats, it was a return to form for several contenders. Sean Butcher (KR Sport) claimed two heat wins, while Bishop and teammate Ties van Wijk also added one each to their name.
DD2 / DD2 Masters – Double strike from Zsebo and De Ruwe
Bende Zsebo (Birelart by KSB) and Xen De Ruwe (AKK Sportstil) each took control of their respective categories by setting pole in DD2 and DD2 Masters. Both drivers went on to convert that speed into race victories in the opening heats, asserting themselves as early favorites for Sunday’s finals.
Stay tuned for more from Trinec as we head into the decisive day of racing at the Steel Ring.