Alonzo Targets National Crown in Rotax Finale

‍Alonzo De Oliveira heads into the decisive final round of the South African Rotax MAX Challenge with everything still to race for as the OMP/Motorsport Fanatix™ brand ambassador looks to complete an impressive rookie Micro MAX campaign on a high.

The reigning South African Bambino Champion stepped up to the highly competitive Micro MAX category this season and has quickly established himself as a regular front-runner. Despite entering the finale trailing the championship leader, Alonzo remains firmly focused on maximising every opportunity across what promises to be a demanding four-heat showdown.

The 2026 national championship comprises 13 heats, with each driver's best 10 scoring results counting towards the final championship classification. With four heats scheduled for the finale, the format adds another dimension to the title battle as dropped scores come into play and every result could prove significant.

For Alonzo, the opportunity to challenge for another South African title in his first season in Micro MAX represents an exciting conclusion to a year of learning, development and consistently fighting at the sharp end of the field.

"I know I'm going into the final round behind in the championship, but I'm going there to give it everything I have," said Alonzo. "I would love to become the South African champion again, especially in my first year in Micro MAX. The chance to win the championship and represent South Africa at the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals in Portugal would be something very special. There are four races, so there is still a lot that can happen. My job is to focus on each race, do the best I can and keep fighting until the final chequered flag."

Having made the transition from Bambino to Micro MAX this year, Alonzo's rookie campaign has provided another important step in his development. The finale now presents his biggest test of the season as he looks to convert his progress into a championship challenge.

Official action kicks off on Thursday, with several practice sessions running from the morning through to Friday afternoon. Qualifying follows on Friday and will determine the starting grids for the opening class heats.

Saturday brings the championship to a close, with the remaining three heats giving Alonzo and his rivals four chances across the weekend to score crucial points before the 2026 South African national champions are crowned.

Entry to the final round is free, with motorsport supporters encouraged to attend and experience the national championship finale trackside.

Those unable to attend can follow the live action on the South African Rotax MAX Challenge YouTube channel from Friday afternoon:

https://www.youtube.com/@sarotaxmaxchallenge3045/streams

For Alonzo, the equation is simple: race hard, maximise every opportunity and keep his championship hopes alive until the very end.