The UK’s reputation as one of the world’s leading nations in karting was further strengthened during the opening rounds of this year’s FIA Karting European Championship, with young British drivers claiming victories in both the Junior and OK categories.
Will Green and Noah Baglin began their respective campaigns in the best possible fashion at La Conca in southern Italy.
With 188 competitors entered, the competition was predictably intense throughout the weekend. Practice sessions and qualifying heats took place on Friday and Saturday, before Sunday morning’s Super Heats narrowed the field down to the top 36 drivers in each class.
Green seized the lead on the second lap of the Junior final and the Williams F1 Academy driver went on to secure victory ahead of local Italian contender Giaole Girardello.
“I’m really happy – I’ve waited a while for this moment,” said Green, who first began karting at Whilton Mill in 2019 at just six years old. “I’ve had good speed all week here and I’m glad it’s paid off!”
Having won the FIA Karting Junior World Championship last year, Baglin continued his impressive form after stepping up to the OK class. Like Green, he began racing at the age of six, and the highly talented 14-year-old is already part of the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy.
After securing pole position for the final, a composed Baglin delivered a flawless performance to claim maximum points.
“Obviously it’s special – an amazing start and an amazing race,” he said on the podium. “It’s a whole different grid in this class compared to Juniors. Being World Champion in Juniors helps a little with confidence, but this is a bigger, faster category.”
Further reinforcing the UK’s status as a breeding ground for emerging talent, Zac Drummond joined Baglin on the podium following a remarkable drive through the field. The Scottish rising star climbed an impressive 13 places to secure a well-earned third-place finish.
All of the successful drivers are previous British Kart Championship graduates. The FIA Karting European Championship resumes next month in Chiva, Valencia.
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