Motorsportsalongen in Örebro – a meeting place for the entire motorsport community

Motorsportsalongen was held this year for the third time and has quickly become a broad meeting place for Swedish motorsport. Here, established riders, young talents, teams, clubs, businesses and visitors gather to explore vehicles, technology and future initiatives. This year’s edition was the first to take place in Örebro, following two successful years in Värmland

On Friday’s VIP evening, riders, teams, exhibitors and visitors met for an initial preview ahead of the weekend’s full programme. We were greeted by hosts in glitter and glasses of sparkling wine, creating a social and welcoming atmosphere.

The move to Örebro was made to give the event the opportunity to grow beyond Värmland and reach a new audience.

The organiser, Suzanne Walfridson, explained that the aim of the event is clear:

– The goal is to bring people together, and when the right people meet in the right setting, that’s when the magic happens.

Riders and profiles on site

Among those taking part in the VIP evening were several individuals representing the diversity of motorsport. One of them was Joacim Boive, who both trains and competes on a motorcycle using only one leg, after losing his right leg to cancer as a child. He competed in the Adventure class on his BMW 900 in this year’s edition of the Gotland Grand National, a race that offered the toughest conditions since its inception. Several hundred motorcycles became stuck in the mud, and for the heavier adventure bikes it became a real challenge. Joacim was one of many forced to concede defeat to the mud. Keep an eye out for the January issue of All about Bikes, where you can read more about Joacim’s journey.

On the exhibition floor we also met Annie Seel, Sweden’s most experienced Dakar rider with 40 years in the motorcycle industry. Truly impressive and a genuine source of inspiration. We took the opportunity to ask for an interview – you can read it in the ‘Curious About’ section of this issue of All about Bikes.

Another familiar face we encountered was Stewe Mk, known to many in the motorcycle world through his YouTube channel, travels and training courses. He spoke about his upcoming attempt at the Africa Eco Race, where his plan is to ride all the way to the start, complete the race, and then ride home again.

Young talents and optimism for the future

The VIP evening also offered space for the next generation. One young driver who has received significant attention recently is Melvin Kalousdian, who became the youngest ever to win both the Swedish and Nordic Championships in formula racing. He contributed a clear sense of optimism and development within Swedish motorsport.

Several young riders represented new classes and initiatives, among them 19-year-old Elias Adelstam, who competes in the growing Formula Nova class. His participation highlights the increasing number of routes into the sport today.

A broad range and a family-friendly focus

Motorsportsalongen showcased competition vehicles, accessories, spare parts and technical solutions. For those interested in technology, there was plenty to explore and discuss with the exhibitors. The event also included several activities for children and families, as motorsport is for many an interest that starts early, often within the family. This is an important part of the organisers’ ambition to welcome visitors of all ages – and perhaps plant the first seed of motorsport interest.

Looking ahead

When it comes to the future, organiser Suzanne Walfridson prefers to take one year at a time. Although planning for the coming year is already underway, she emphasises that decisions are made after each event:
– We want to give Örebro a fair chance. A lot points towards another year here, but we evaluate after each event.

Motorsportsalongen aims to be a meeting place where all branches of motorsport come together under one roof.

We look forward to next year’s edition of Motorsportsalongen.