Ben Jelf made a spectacular start to the 2025 F1H2O World Championship at Lake Toba, Indonesia, marking his third full season in the series.
On Friday, Jelf impressed in free practice, finishing fourth after pushing his boat throughout the 60-minute session. Qualifying followed an intense 20-minute session, with Jelf progressing comfortably through Q1, Q2, and the final session, ultimately securing fifth on the grid for the opening Grand Prix.
The Sprint Race saw the fleet split in two, with Jelf starting Race 1. From the outset, he held a strong third position, fending off pressure from Team China’s Peter Morin to claim his first podium of the season. Meanwhile, his Portuguese team-mate, Duarte Benavente, struggled with engine problems and finished tenth.
Sunday’s 24-lap Grand Prix brought even more drama. A first-turn collision between Peter Morin and Erik Stark caused an early yellow flag. Once the race resumed, Jelf battled Shaun Torrente, edging past the three-time World Champion to move into fourth.
With seven laps remaining, disaster struck reigning World Champion Jonas Andersson, whose engine failed. Jelf was promoted to third and held off intense pressure from Stefan Arand and Torrente, securing his first Grand Prix podium and the bronze trophy.
Reflecting on the weekend, Jelf said:
Wow, what a race — that was really intense. I’m not sure how we got through that one unscathed as Peter and Erik crashed right in front of me.
I’m over the moon to have secured not only a Sprint Bronze but the Grand Prix of Indonesia Bronze as well. My whole team has worked so hard to get me here, and that hard work is starting to pay off.
That’s three podium finishes for me in Indonesia now, including third in the Sprint race last year. The reception we get from the people of Lake Toba makes it even more special. Thanks to my team, sponsors, and fans around the world for your support — it means so much.
Jelf now sits third overall in the 2025 F1H2O World Championship, with the next round set for the Grand Prix of Shanghai in five weeks.
Nikki Drummond has been instrumental in promoting powerboat racing through her reporting and her roles within the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), including serving as a Powerboat Racing Officer.
Her journalistic work spans both UK and international racing, and she currently manages media for the F1 Atlantic Team, Jelf Racing, and other competitors. Drummond’s insights and coverage have appeared in a variety of publications, significantly contributing to the visibility and growth of the sport.