Get To Know Aki Pihlaja | 2023 SNX World Champion

We got to discuss with 2023 SNX World Champion Aki Pihlaja. The Finnish rider reveals a bit about himself before the 2024 SNX Round 1 in Turkiye!

• Who is Aki Pihlaja, please tell us bout your self and was it to become World Champion in 2023 ?

Aki is a rider who loves the sport and keeps doing what he likes the most. World championship was my long time goal and finally after 4 silver medals I achieved the gold so it was highlight of my career.

• What are your thoughts/comments on SNX that will be held in Turkiye?

I’m excited about turkey race, it’s a new venue and high altitude so it makes a big difference for setups and riding.

• What was the race, that you can not forget, why?

Still bummed about 2018 world championships in Levi, because I won fir the first time a Final heat, but had bad luck in the first one with a crash (2 finals in the race)

• What are the most challenging sides of this sport?

Most challenging sides are changing track conditions because of snow and machine needs to be adjusted perfectly in every venue.

• You are a Snowcross rider, season is short, what are your summer events/hobbies?

My summer hobbies are mountain biking and relaxing. In scandinavia winter is long (5-6months) so it’s not that long summer

Following four silver medals, the Finnish rider Pihlaja finally got his hands on the gold medal in 2023. Can he now add another silverware to his name in 2024? That question will be answered throughout the 2024 FIM SNX World Championship!

Get ready to see him ride in Kayseri Erciyes, Turkiye on the 10th of March for the opening SNX round !