Pedersen Reigns Supreme

Nicki Pedersen opened up a 13-point lead at the top of the World Championship table after his second victory of the season in Wroclaw. Pedersen held off the challenge of Hans Andersen in a dramatic final to take the title after being beaten just once all evening. Slovenia’s Matej Zagar became the first man to lower the speedy Danes colours this campaign taking a win in Heat 7.

Hans Andersen made the most of his good fortune having squeezed through to the semi finals with only 6 points. Andersen finishing ahead of Britains Chris Harris to book a place in the final. Harris had a marvellous night fighting from the back to earn himself a final place in only his second Grand Prix. The 24-year-old Cornishman stunned former champion Greg Hancock in the second semi final bursting round the American on the final lap.

Scott Nicholls put in a brave display riding with a damaged thumb only missing a place in the last eight on count back. Reigning champion Jason Crump had another mixed night a fighting performance holding off Bjarne Pedersen in his semi final was followed by a tame display in the final as he trailed in last.

The home crowd had little to cheer with Tomasz Gollob decidedly off colour as none of the Polish contingent progressed beyond the qualifying stages. The series now heads to Sweden in two weeks time with even at this early stage everyone wondering just who can stop Nicki Pedersen.

European Grand Prix: 1.N.Pedersen (Den) 2. H.Andersen (Den) 3. C.Harris (GB) 4.J.Crump (Aus)

World Championship Standings: 1. N.Pedersen 47 2. G.Hancock 34 3. J.Crump 25 4. L.Adams 22 5. H.Andersen 22 6. C.Harris 22