After finishing only 11th overall in the RallyX CrossCar Junior standings in 2024, his first full season at this level, Sebastian Isaksaetre made the most of the campaign to take a significant step forward in his development.

With seven qualifying appearances and one final in nine events, the young Norwegian also secured his first career podium at the Nysum circuit.

Climbing to fourth in the RallyX standings, Isaksaetre recorded one of the most notable improvements of the 2025 season, gaining no fewer than seven positions in the CrossCar Junior hierarchy. A level of performance that clearly reflects the progress made by the Elverum native.

“The progress I made last season was mainly down to a better understanding of the car and the experience I gained. I tried to learn from my mistakes, and the goal now is to carry that momentum into this season,” Sebastian explains.

Changes introduced early in the year also played a key role in that development.

“At the start of the year, we made a few adjustments to our CrossCar, and I quickly felt they suited my driving style much better. As the season went on, I became more consistent, which allowed me to fight for top times, podiums, and even the championship.”

Fully aware that there is still room for improvement, the Norwegian has clearly identified the areas he needs to work on to reach the next level.

“I still need to improve how I manage my emotions and reduce mistakes. I found more speed last year, and now the objective is to maintain that level over an entire season.”

In his pursuit of consistency, the support around him has also proved crucial, starting with the presence of his uncle, Espen Isaksaetre.

“Having Espen with me is very important. He helps me analyze my driving during and after the races, and he gives me advice throughout the weekend. His experience is invaluable, and he has a real ability to explain things clearly, which helps me improve.”

Buoyed by this momentum, Sebastian Isaksaetre now heads into the 2026 season with clear ambitions.

“I hope to secure my first victory this season and be in a position to fight for the championship. I think it’s now realistic to aim for regular podium finishes and even wins. I have high expectations for the season and I’m really looking forward to getting started.”

With just a few weeks to go before the start of the RallyX season, the Elverum driver appears to have all the ingredients in place to confirm his rise and establish himself as one of the leading contenders to succeed Carl Svedlund in the Junior championship.