The Rotax MAX Challenge Euro Trophy is gearing up for its second round of the 2025 season, heading to uncharted territory as the Steel Ring in Trinec, Czech Republic, makes its debut on the RMC Euro Trophy calendar.
This state-of-the-art circuit, which opened in 2017, promises to be a technical test for the international field. With 1.3 kilometers of fast straights and 15 demanding corners, the Steel Ring is a driver’s track built for skill, precision, and wheel-to-wheel action. Nestled in the heart of Central Europe, the venue boasts top-tier facilities and is set to deliver a memorable weekend for competitors and fans alike. Five Rotax categories will line up in Trinec, including 200 drivers. Here’s what to watch across the classes.
Mini MAX – Mair eyes momentum after German success
Although the Mini MAX drivers competed in a standalone event in Wackersdorf, all eyes are on SFR Motorsport’s Alfie Mair as the young Brit arrives in Trinec fresh from victory—and with a ticket to the 2025 RMC Grand Finals already in his pocket. With 37 drivers entered and the Czech Cup points now on the line, Mair will be looking to extend his form on a brand-new track that promises a level playing field for all.
Junior MAX – Denholm sets the Benchmark
Cole Denholm (Dan Holland Racing) emerged from Round 1 with a strategic masterclass, turning consistency into victory with wins in both the prefinal and final on Sunday. Now leading the standings on 159 points, Denholm holds a narrow margin over teammate Jacob Ashcroft (155), with Boaz Maximov (Bouvin Power) just a single point behind in third. With 54 entrants in Trinec, the Junior field remains wide open, and the battle at the top is far from settled.
Senior MAX – Gilbert leads in crowded field
The Senior MAX grid is stacked with talent and depth, with 81 drivers ready to tackle the Czech venue. Lewis Gilbert (Kraft Motorsport) arrives with momentum, holding the provisional lead at 162 points following a strong showing in Wackersdorf (sub judice). Sean Butcher (KR Sport) remains within striking distance on 160, while Cameron Nelson (Dan Holland Racing) stays in touch at 149. With such a deep field and the added complexity of a new track, expect drama from lights to flag.
DD2 / DD2 Masters – Bezel and Picot set the pace
In DD2, Kraft Motorsport’s Jakub Bezel (Kraft Motorsport) made a decisive move in Round 1 and leads the standings with 162 points, tied with Masters leader Nicolas Picot (Privateer), who capitalized on Fabian Bock’s misfortunes to take the category lead. The 29-driver field in Trinec brings both categories together again, with the championship picture continuing to evolve as new names challenge the established order.
With a new venue, packed grids, and titles on the line, Round 2 of the 2025 Rotax MAX Challenge Euro Trophy promises to deliver unpredictable battles and championship-defining moments. Lights go out this weekend at the Steel Ring.
The Event Program
The weekend schedule follows the well-established format: two days of practice (Wednesday and Thursday), followed by qualifying and the first heats on Friday. Saturday will wrap up the heat races, while Sunday is set for the final phase of the event, with Prefinals and Finals.
- Wednesday, June 4: Free practices starting at 08:45 AM.
- Thursday, June 5: Free practices starting at 08:45 AM.
- Friday, June 6: Free Practices starting at 09:00 AM; from 11:40 AM Qualifying Practices; from 2.20 PM Heats.
- Saturday, June 7: Warm Up starting at 08:45 AM; from 11:20 AM Heats.
- Sunday, June 8: from 09:00 AM Warm-up; from 10:40 AM Prefinals, from 1.45 PM Finals.
The pre-finals and finals will be broadcast live on Sunday, June 8.
For full results, schedules, and live coverage, visit www.rotaxmaxchallenge-eurotrophy.com.