A second world podium in 2023 for Bogdan Cosma Cristofor after some fantastic battles

Buoyed by his excellent results in the IAME Series Italy in the X30 Mini category, Bogdan Cosma Cristofor was one of the many drivers racing in Portugal from 24th to 28th October for the IWF23. This was the International Grand Final of the IAME Motorsport brand cup, which brought together 367 drivers of 44 nationalities, including 100 in Bogdan’s category. During the four days of competition, the young and talented Romanian put in a faultless meeting despite numerous pitfalls, which enabled him to achieve a masterly 2nd position at the chequered flag after battles of every kind.

Bogdan Cosma Cristofor’s season of podium finishes continues unabated. The cups he has won since the start of the season are piling up, and the one he received on the podium in Portimao was one of the hardest to achieve. Of course, victory is always the ultimate goal that this determined driver sets himself at every event, but some runner-up titles are extremely rewarding at the highest international level of karting.

Consistent performance

Already champion of the WSK Open Series, leader of the WSK Euro Series, winner of the Rok Superfinal and now runner-up in the IWF, Bogdan Cosma Cristofor is clearly having an extraordinary season among the world’s best drivers in Mini category. At Portimao, things got off to a great start, with the 7th fastest time out of 100 at the end of the Qualifying sessions. With five Qualifying Heats and a Super Heat on the programme, it was all about staying fast, solid and consistent. His positions of P4, P5, P4, P4, P1 and then P3 gave him confidence in his chances, with an enviable position in the leading group going into the Final.

A breathless end to the race

In the decisive race, Bogdan got stuck in the bends after the start and found himself 8th on the first lap. He quickly went on the attack and took just six laps to move back up the order. Intense duels ensued, once again demonstrating the Romanian’s ability to resist the pressure. With three laps to go, the 12-year-old took the lead, but another kart touched his, forcing Bogdan to go off the correct line. He lost three places in this mishap and no doubt his hopes of victory. Fighting to the end, he recovered 2nd place at the last minute, just three tenths behind the winner.

To reach the podium, Bogdan Cosma Cristofor worked closely with his technical entourage in the Fusion Motorsport team, with the skills of his mechanic Catalin Caloianu and his engine tuner Shox Engines.

Bogdan Cosma-Cristofor – Press release / Photo © Matteo Segato