Group H Special competitor John Spyder has an opportunity to become the fourth driver in 2021 to clinch a championship title early when the European Hillclimb Championship rolls into Switzerland for Round 10. There will be 75 points up for grabs after the event, and with a 77 point championship lead over Vincent Tucoulat already, it’s very likely Spyder will be able to call himself champion on Monday night.

Group H Special started out as the closest of the five categories used in the European Hillclimb Championship this year. Philipp Raab’s early consistency was the most impressive part of the opening three rounds, as the Austrian driver was able to finish 2nd at every round. However, this tailed off dramatically, as over the next three races he only scored a total of six points. He has been losing significant points throughout the season, and so is 83 points behind John Spyder.

When in attendance, Vincent Tucoulat has been exceptional this season. In his three appearances so far, he has won twice and finished 2nd once as well. Unfortunately, these have been his only races this season, so while he has been arguably the best driver, he hasn’t been picking up enough points to challenge Spyder for the title.

Another driver who could’ve challenge the championship leader is Julien Delage, since he won his home event at Col St. Pierre in France. He went on to secure another couple of top fives, which is not a bad way to tackle this championship as he was picking up consistent championship points after all.

However, after struggling and failing to score at the fourth round in Spain, he hasn’t returned to the championship since. Delage is still in mathematical contention, but it’s unrealistic to suggest he could still win.

In fact, seven drivers are still mathematically in with a chance of taking the Group H Special as there are 100 points still up for grabs. We head to the St. Ursanne next, Round 10 of the championship.

It’s a phenomenal test of bravery, possibly the highest speed climb we have on the schedule this year. This is a stark contrast to the tight and technical Trento Bondone of two weeks ago. The cars will be set up entirely differently, and the drivers will need a different mindset too.

Join us on GTR24H as we broadcast the tenth round of the European Hillclimb Championship from 9:30 CEST on Monday.