For his debut behind the wheel of the VW Polo KMS #601 run by JC Raceteknik, Mats Öhman certainly didn’t hold back during the opening day of competition on home soil in Älvsbyn.

A local to the Swedish circuit, Öhman made quite an impression in Race 1—despite it being his first official outing of the 2025 season.

After setting the fastest time in Q1 and backing it up with second in Q2, only a collision with Viktor Vranckx and Ulrik Linnemann in Q3 prevented the Swedish driver from claiming top spot in the intermediate classification.

His raw pace was evident early on, clocking the second-fastest time in both free practice sessions before notching the third-best lap time in Q2.

Though a podium finish seemed within reach, a tricky launch off the line in the final ultimately cost him the result that had appeared firmly in his grasp.

Still, the experienced Swede chose to focus on the positives.

“Yes, I’m really satisfied. I missed the start a bit in the final, which was a shame, but these things happen,” said Öhman.

“I had the chance to get in a few test sessions with this new car, but when you arrive at your first race of the season, you’re always a little more tense than usual. That’s just how it is. We’re making progress with our starts, though, and that’s an area we’ll keep working on.”

One thing is certain: with unsettled weather expected this Sunday in Älvsbyn, Öhman will head back out on track as one of the clear favourites for the win.

“Rain doesn’t bother me at all. You just need to dial in the right setup. We’ve done so much driving in these conditions—we’re ready. Honestly, being able to battle with all these young guns makes me feel like I’m 25 again, and I can’t hide how much fun I’m having out there.”