Mattias Ekström's path to the final went through long-time rallycross rival Johan Kristoffersson in the quarterfinals and rally champion Thierry Neuville in the semifinals.
In the final, he was pitted against young German Formula 1 driver Mick Schumacher who defeated Formula 2 champion Felipe Drugovich in the quarters and against four-time F1 champion, also good friend and mentor, Sebastian Vettel in the semis.
In the final, which was decided in the best of three heats, Mattias Ekström got off to a dream start with a victory in heat one.
Then in heat two, Ekström was able to decide, but not without drama.
- That was not really in the plan, after half a lap something started to burn inside the car.
It started to smoke a lot.
I think my co-driver wanted to stay, but I wasn't that interested in that, said Mattias Ekström.
"More special than winning"
He finished the heat as the winner and thus became champion of the Race of Champions - for the fourth time in his career.
- But driving against Mick is more special to me than actually winning.
I drove two finals against Michael (Schumacher) and it feels fantastic and emotional for me.
I've had great moments with Michael in this tournament, so seeing Mick in the final is very special, says an emotional Mattias Ekström.