At the pre-season FIA World Rallycross Championship media day in Barcelona, Swedish karter Andreas Bäckman has announced his participation in the inaugural 2017 RX2 International Series (formerly RX Lites).
Bäckman, whose karting career spans across the past ten years, is already a well-known name at both national and international level, having competed as a works driver for Kosmic Racing Team, having finished inside the top three in the European Championship and winning the International Open twice.
Now, Andreas’ next challenge is a debut in international rallycross with an established team such as Olsbergs MSE.
“After learning my craft in karting, rallycross seemed like the natural next step to take,” he explained. “It’s the fastest-growing form of motor sport in the world and it’s hugely popular in Sweden, with a big profile and famous teams like OMSE. That was one of the first things that attracted me to rallycross – and let’s face it, the cars are mega cool!
“The fact that it’s such a level playing field also offers a fantastic opportunity to really show the Supercar teams what you’re capable of, because we’re competing on the same stage as World Rallycross, which is obviously my longer-term goal.”
Bäckman has already tested RX Lites cars, and immediately found them suited to his driving style, increasing his confidence for the season ahead.
Other drivers to join Andreas on the grid will be reigning champion Cyril Raymond, Swedish young gun William Nilsson and American ace Tanner Whitten, while further announcements will be made in the next few weeks, prior to the first round of the RX2 Series in Mettet, Belgium, on 12-14 May.