Kevin Hansen named FIA Rookie of the Year, and targets World RX

Former MSA British Junior Rallycross champion Kevin Hansen has been awarded the FIA Rookie of the Year award.

Hansen claimed the FIA European Championship for Supercar in his debut season in the division this year.

The 18-year-old, who picked up his trophy at the FIA Awards Gala in Vienna last week, has his sights set on racing full-time in the World Rallycross Championship next season.

“It feels pretty unreal to have won this award. It’s hard to understand really,” he said. “It’s such a special award, and to be the first rallycross driver ever to win it is something really indescribable. So many great drivers have previously won it, so to be on that list is epic.”

The Swede says he still can’t quite believe what he achieved this season.

“It’s still too big to realise that I’m European champion, but for sure winning four of the five rounds has sunk in, as well as some strong performances in World RX,” he added.

Kevin, the son of 14-time champion Kenneth Hansen, also drove his Peugeot 208 Supercar to strong performances in World RX events, with fourth overall at Lydden Hill in the UK and in Germany in 2016.

“World RX is my goal for sure, and I think I’ve earned it,” he said. “But as everyone knows it’s not only about results in motorsport.”