Davit Kajaia's Last-Minute Triumph: A NASCAR Euro Series Stunner!
The Challenger Trophy had a shocking conclusion! In a nail-biting finish, Davit Kajaia emerged as the 2025 Challenger Trophy winner in the NASCAR Euro Series' PRO division. But how did this underdog story unfold?
André Wiegold's report from www.nascar.eu on October 15, 2025, reveals the dramatic tale. Kajaia, a Georgian rookie, and Claudio Cappelli, the Italian veteran, were neck-and-neck in the final race. But here's where it gets controversial: a tiebreaker decided the champion, with Kajaia taking the trophy.
Kajaia's journey began in Valencia, where he and his compatriot Sandro Tavartkiladze made their NASCAR debut with Marko Stipp Motorsport. Kajaia's 13th-place finish in qualifying and 14th in the race showcased his raw talent. His touring car experience proved invaluable, allowing him to quickly adapt to the powerful NASCAR machines.
At Vallelunga and Brands Hatch, Kajaia faced new challenges. Despite a tough start at Vallelunga, he fought back to secure a third-place finish in the Challenger Trophy. Brands Hatch saw him continue his momentum, winning the Challenger Trophy and staying close to Cappelli in the standings.
The races at Most and Oschersleben demonstrated Kajaia's resilience. While Cappelli maintained his lead, Kajaia consistently improved, keeping the gap manageable. Oschersleben's technical track proved difficult, but Kajaia's determination earned him a top-10 finish and a third Challenger Trophy podium.
And this is the part most people miss: the finale at Zolder. Cappelli's qualifying position hinted at a potential upset, and Kajaia's return to Marko Stipp Motorsport sparked an unexpected fairy tale. In a thrilling conclusion, Kajaia secured a career-best seventh-place finish and the Challenger Trophy, while Cappelli struggled. The tiebreaker rule crowned Kajaia the champion.
Kajaia's remarkable rookie season will be celebrated at the NASCAR Banquet in Charlotte, North Carolina, on November 21st. His journey from underdog to champion is a testament to the unpredictability of NASCAR racing. Will he continue to defy the odds in the upcoming seasons? Only time will tell.
What are your thoughts on tiebreakers deciding championships? Do they add excitement or create unfair outcomes? Share your opinions in the comments below!
