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Andreas Bäckman confirms graduation from karting to RX2

Swedish star signs up to RX2 with Olsbergs MSE
21-year-old boasts impressive karting pedigree
Scandinavian eager to impress on international stage

Successful karter Andreas Bäckman will step up to the inaugural RX2 International Series presented by Cooper Tires this year, after officially announcing his participation during the pre-season FIA World Rallycross Championship Media Day in Barcelona.

Bäckman has spent the past decade making a name for himself in karting at both national and international level, competing as a works driver for Kosmic Racing Team, finishing inside the top three in the European Championship and lifting the International Open laurels two years in succession.

Now, the 21-year-old Swede is fired-up to make his debut in cars with established Scandinavian outfit Olsbergs MSE - and relishing the opportunity to demonstrate his mettle in front of the sport's very biggest-hitters.

"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.

"I've tested an RX Lites car before, and it immediately seemed to suit my driving style so I'm feeling confident. My aim for the season ahead is to learn as much as I can - and hopefully fight for some podium finishes along the way."

Bäckman joins reigning RX Lites Champion Cyril Raymond, Swedish young gun William Nilsson and American ace Tanner Whitten in having confirmed his place on the 2017 RX2 grid. Further driver announcements will be made over the coming days and weeks.

The 2017 RX2 International Series presented by Cooper Tires will take in seven rounds across three continents in support of the FIA World Rallycross Championship presented by Monster Energy, visiting Mettet in Belgium, Lydden Hill in Great Britain, Hell in Norway, Höljes in Sweden, Trois-Rivières in Canada, Lohéac in France and Cape Town in South Africa.