Norwegian karting prodigy selected for international racing academy
Vebjørn Danielsson Glende, 13, has been chosen as Norway’s sole junior representative in the FIA Karting Academy, a prestigious international training program for young racing drivers.
The Trondheim-based karting talent, who has dominated domestic competitions by margins exceeding seven seconds, will now compete in a series of races in Italy and Belgium against Europe’s top junior drivers. All participants use identical equipment, placing the focus solely on skill.
“I was really happy when I heard the news,” Vebjørn said. “It’s something we’ve worked toward for a long time.”
His father, Øyvind Danielsson Glende—also the team mechanic—called the selection a validation of his son’s dedication. “It’s wonderful to see him pursue his passion with such commitment,” he said. “We spend a lot of time together, and it’s not just about racing—there’s a lot of fun and laughter too.”
The academy’s three-race series will test Vebjørn’s ability to compete at a higher level. “I need to improve my racecraft—being more aggressive in wheel-to-wheel battles and overtaking,” he explained. “If you don’t push, you get left behind.”
Rune Bekkevold, secretary of the Norwegian Motorsport Federation’s karting section, described Vebjørn as “task-focused and a skilled, determined driver.” The federation selects one senior and one junior driver annually for the academy.
Despite limited local training facilities—Trondheim’s nearest track is in Berkåk, over an hour away—Vebjørn has excelled. Last season, he won a race in Trøgstad by more than seven seconds. His long-term goal is to transition to GT racing, with ambitions to compete at Le Mans, the world’s most prestigious endurance race.
Balancing school with racing remains a priority. “I’ll miss some classes, but I’ll catch up with homework,” Vebjørn said. His father added that the academy offers both athletic development and exposure: “It’s a step into European racing, which could open doors for his future.”
Source: NRK Trøndelag