After finishing runner-up at his first attempt in 2024, Carlberg’s three victories and second place finish in the Hankook-supplied category were enough for the Swede to claim the title one event ahead of schedule.
“This is the best day of my life,” said the ADAC Opel Rally Junior Team driver, 25. “I got to say such a big thanks to Opel for this opportunity. It would never be possible without them and all of my sponsors. Tom Kristensson, Hankook and everyone who has been a part of this. I never thought I would come this far and call myself a European champion but that proves with hard work and dedication you can do whatever you want. It feels so good.”
With Carlberg’s regular co-driver Jørgen Eriksen not competing on Barum Czech Rally Zlín while he waits the birth of his second daughter, Carlberg called on his father Torbjörn to help him seal the deal.
They were leading their category until driveshaft failure put them out on SS6. But with rivals Jaspar Vaher and Ioan Lloyd both retiring, Carlberg simply had to finish on his return to action on day two to take the crown.
He follows in the wheel tracks of compatriot Mille Johansson by winning Junior ERC title gold, becoming the 12th driver to do so and the third Swedish champion after Emil Bergkvist triumphed in 2015.
*Subject to final FIA confirmation