In an exciting development for international powerboat racing, Estonian driver Stefan Arand has officially joined the prestigious Sharjah Team, marking a new chapter in his F1H2O career. The announcement has added momentum to the upcoming season, with fans and analysts eager to see how this talented young driver performs under a new banner and alongside some of the top names in the sport.
A Promising Start in Powerboat Racing
Stefan Arand’s journey into professional powerboat racing began at a young age, quickly distinguishing himself with a combination of natural skill, determination, and tactical acumen. Born in Estonia, Arand took to the water in 2012, quickly rising through the ranks of junior competition. By 2014, he had already secured the GT15 World and European Championships—an early sign of his racing pedigree.
His upward trajectory continued with remarkable consistency. In 2015, he defended his European title and began to earn accolades not just for his results, but for his technique and composure under pressure. His efforts did not go unnoticed by the sport’s governing bodies, earning him the title of UIM Junior Driver of the Year for three consecutive years from 2016 to 2018—a rare and notable feat in the competitive world of powerboat racing.
From GT15 to F2: Building a Competitive Edge
After dominating the GT15 class, Arand made a seamless transition to higher racing categories, including the GT30 and F2 series. In 2017 and 2018, he took home the world championship titles in both GT15 and GT30, showcasing not only his versatility but his ability to adapt to the more powerful and complex boats.
His real breakthrough came in the UIM F2 World Championship, where he consistently placed among the top contenders. In 2023, Arand secured third place in the F2 World Championship and was named Rookie of the Year—a title that further cemented his reputation as one of the most promising young racers on the international circuit.
These accomplishments laid a solid foundation for his debut in the elite F1H2O World Championship, the sport’s highest echelon.
The 2024 Debut with Team Vietnam
Arand made his much-anticipated F1H2O debut in the 2024 season with Team Vietnam. While debut seasons are often riddled with challenges, Arand managed to capture attention right out of the gate with an impressive fourth-place finish at the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia. His performance in the opening race hinted at his potential to make an immediate impact on the international stage.
However, like many rookies, Arand faced his share of hurdles throughout the season. Retirements in Vietnam and Sardinia, coupled with an injury that forced him to miss the final round in Sharjah, kept him from achieving a higher ranking. Despite these setbacks, he finished 10th in the Drivers’ Championship with a respectable 34.5 points. Notably, his performances contributed to Team Vietnam’s remarkable run, helping them secure the Teams’ Championship title—an impressive feat for a driver in his first year.
The Switch to Sharjah Team: A Strategic Move
The decision to join Sharjah Team for the 2025 season marks a significant step in Arand’s career. The Sharjah Team is known for its strong legacy in F1H2O and for producing highly competitive racers under the leadership of Scott Gillman, a four-time UIM F1H2O World Champion and respected team manager.
Teaming up with Sharjah provides Arand with a new environment, greater resources, and an experienced support system. It also places him alongside a formidable lineup of teammates, including last season’s Rookie of the Year, Rusty Wyatt, and seasoned Finnish driver Filip Roms. This trio is expected to form a dynamic unit that could lead Sharjah Team to a new era of dominance in the championship.
Gillman expressed confidence in Arand’s potential, stating that his raw talent and hunger for success make him a natural fit for the team. “Stefan brings with him an outstanding junior record and has already shown flashes of brilliance in F1H2O. We believe that, with the right guidance and support, he can evolve into one of the top contenders in this sport,” Gillman said during the team’s announcement.
Preparation for a Condensed 2025 Season
With the 2025 F1H2O season expected to feature a rapid-fire five-round calendar, Arand has his work cut out for him. The condensed schedule means less room for error, more pressure in each race, and the need for precise execution from both drivers and support staff. However, it also allows Arand time to strategically prepare during the off-season, both physically and mentally.
His training regimen has already intensified, with a focus on improving endurance, reaction time, and adaptability—key components for navigating unpredictable water conditions at high speeds. Sharjah Team’s access to state-of-the-art simulation tools and performance analytics will be crucial in helping Arand refine his approach and gain a competitive edge over the competition.
Learning from the Best
Another advantage of Arand’s new position is the opportunity to learn from his experienced teammates. Rusty Wyatt, who enjoyed a breakout season in 2024, brings a fresh perspective and innovative strategies to the team. Meanwhile, Filip Roms offers veteran insight and years of experience navigating the ups and downs of the sport.
The synergy between these three racers is expected to boost team morale and foster an atmosphere of collaboration and mutual growth. Arand, always known for his humility and work ethic, has already expressed his eagerness to learn from his teammates and contribute meaningfully to the team’s success.
Fans and Analysts Show High Expectations
The racing community is already buzzing about what Arand’s move to Sharjah could mean for the championship landscape. Fans are excited to see him build on the promise he showed during his rookie season, while analysts are curious to see how the young Estonian adapts to his new team and takes advantage of improved resources.
Industry insiders believe that if Arand can remain injury-free and avoid mechanical issues, he has the skillset and mental strength to be a podium regular and even challenge for individual titles in the near future.
A Bright Future Ahead
At just 22 years old, Stefan Arand has already achieved more than many racers do in a lifetime. Yet, it is clear that he is just getting started. With the full backing of a well-established team, experienced teammates, and a renewed sense of purpose, Arand’s move to the Sharjah Team could be the defining moment in what promises to be a stellar career.
The 2025 F1H2O season may still be a few months away, but for Stefan Arand and his growing legion of fans, the journey has already begun. Whether he finishes on the podium or not, one thing is certain: the world of powerboat racing will be watching closely.
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