Co-driver talent Maja Bengtsson becomes trainee in WRC

The Swedish co-driver talent, 16 year old Maja Bengtson from Virestad, becomes a part of the entourage of junior world champion Tom Kristensson as he steps in to this years WRC as a factory driver for M-Sport Ford World Rally Team.

"Rally-Maja" will be a part of the gravel crew for Tom Kristensson and his co-driver David Arhusiander, editing the pace notes so they are updated to the latest conditions from stages starting in WRC Croatia in April.

– It is inspiring and I am honoured! I will grab this opportunity, Maja says ahead of an intense season.

As of right now she will be co-driver for TV-commentator and rally champion Jonas Kruse as they compete in the Swedish Championship for Team NYBE, as well as trainee in WRC behind Tom and David.

Also confirmed is that FIA has granted an international co-driver license for Maja which opens the door for further opportunities.

– This [the international experience] will be very important for my career. I will develop as a co-driver with my goal of one day being there [a professional career], says Maja who is the daughter of Mathias Bengtsson, two time Swedish champion as a co-driver and creator of the successful rallyteam Team NYBE.

Last years JWRC-champion, Tom Kristensson, is very happy over having Maja as a part of his venture in WRC2 for Ford.

–  I see it as an asset to have committed people around me with a big passion for the sport and who are willing to work hard, he says and continues: 

– I have during the last two years seen Maja develop a lot. She shows great interest in what I do while I also see an opportunity for us to develop together in this sport. 

Tom also says that Maja has the potential to help with marketing, which according to him is always needed. But says that it is in the actual competing that focus lies.

– Maja will primarily join us for tests and rallys to gain experience which we together will be able to benefit from. She will follow us to see how we plan and prepare for competitions. The point is for her to learn and gain from our experience. I am convinced she will bring a lot to the table. Quicker than we all think, Tom finishes.

Maja Bengtsson can be reached at 0723-70 92 33 and Tom Kristensson at 0733-30 35 70