On the momentum of his previous performances in OK-Junior, Maxens Verbrugge has just started the 2022 season with a very significant top 10 in the second round of the WSK Super Master Series in Lonato. Just 13 years old, the young Frenchman has put his faith in Jamie Croxford’s team to support him during a decisive year in Junior. The British team Forza Racing, which was crowned Junior World Champion in 2021, is one of the top teams capable of training young talent and taking them to the top, exactly what Maxens needs.
This year he will be driving an Exprit chassis with a TM Racing engine prepared by the renowned British engine manufacturer GFR. He was eager to get back to racing after a long off-season. Even if he didn’t have the opportunity to drive much during the last few months, Maxens was immediately on the pace during an event that broke participation records.
Already fast in the top five during Free Practice, the French hopeful confirmed his speed in Qualifying with a remarkable 5th fastest time among the 90 participants. Unfortunately, he was pushed at the start of a heat and did not complete a lap. His situation remained positive thanks to two 5th places and a superb victory to conclude the phase in 12th place. The tension rose around him in the Prefinal and the result was not what he was counting on, despite some very fast laps: so he started the Final from 14th position. Very determined, he made a very good start and fought until the flag to finish 8th and top Frenchman with a gain of six places, very rewarding at this level of competition.
“Maxens can be satisfied with his first performance in 2022“, analysed his coach Stéphane Daoudi. “Despite a long period away from the circuits, he has not lost any of his speed or his sense of attack. He has now reached a level of maturity far superior to many of his rivals. His adaptation to his new team and equipment has been very quick. His command of the English language is a definite asset that he continues to develop. The conditions are there to have an excellent season and to be definitely among the top OK-Junior drivers“.
Maxens’ main objective will be to succeed in the FIA Karting European Championship and the World Championship. In order to be in the best form, he will participate in the Champions of the Future Euro Series and its preparatory races, as well as in some WSK events. Next week he will be at the start of the Winter Series by RGMMC on the Franciacorta circuit in Italy.
Info Kartcom / Photos © KSP