What it takes: The mindset of a seven-time world champion

When it comes to dominating the Rallycross world, few names resonate as powerfully as the KMS – Horse Powertrain driver Johan Kristoffersson. Crowned World Rallycross Champion for the seventh time, Kristoffersson’s legacy is etched not only in his record-breaking achievements but also in his mental fortitude and relentless pursuit of excellence.

What does it take to be the best?

Rallycross is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. The sport demands lightning-fast adaptability, with drivers navigating through unpredictable conditions, mixed surfaces, and split-second decisions. For Kristoffersson, this mental edge is a defining trait. Known as the benchmark of rallycross, he races with a target on his back. Every rival lines up eager to dethrone him, but his ability to remain unfazed sets him apart.

Watch What it takes: The mindset of a seven-time world champion here.

A lifetime in the making

Kristoffersson’s journey into motorsport began early—before he could even walk. “My first touch with motorsport must have been when I was six months old,” he shared. “Traveling around Europe in a team bus with my father, who was racing and running his own team.” This early exposure ignited a hunger for competition that transcended sports. From handball to hockey and cross country skiing, Johan explored his competitive spirit before rallycross became his true calling.

Mastering the mental game

What separates the KMS – Horse Powertrain driver from his competition? It’s not just his speed, though his pace on the track is undeniable. It’s his mindset—the mental strength that allows him to rise above the chaos. "To stay calm and composed during a race, I rely on preparation," Kristoffersson explains. "The more you can predict, the more you know before a race weekend, the calmer you can be. If something happens that I didn’t prepare for, it can throw me off. But for most challenges, I remind myself: it’s the same for everyone. You just have to cope better than the rest."

The making of a champion

Despite his monumental success, Kristoffersson remains grounded. For him, winning isn’t about the trophies but about honoring the collective effort of his team.

"When I drop the clutch, I know everyone has given their best to provide me with top-tier equipment. The pressure to win is shared—we're all in this together," he explains. "Before every season, I reflect on the previous one, asking, ‘How can I improve?’ The goal is always the same: to reach the final race with a shot at the title."

In rallycross, harmony between the car, driver, and team is essential. "The driver must communicate what’s needed to go faster, and the engineers translate that into the car’s design. Over time, we’ve developed a shared language—a key to our success," the KMS – Horse Powertrain driver concludes.

A champion’s advice

For aspiring drivers, Kristoffersson offers a candid perspective: “Motorsport is a tough, long journey. You need financial backing, experience, and the ability to work well with your partners. But most importantly, believe in your dream and work hard. Mistakes will happen, but the key is to only make them once.”

A legacy of greatness

With seven world titles under his belt, Kristoffersson’s legacy is secure. But for the man himself, the numbers are secondary to the journey. "Winning a world title takes time to sink in. For me, it usually happens when I’m back home, in a quiet moment—like a hot shower after a long day. That’s when I reflect on the season, on the countless small margins that made the difference. It’s not just about the result; it’s about everything we overcame to get there."