Axel Makes the Leap to OKNJ Class at WSK Final Cup Round in Cremona

Swedish-Australian karting talent Axel “Axeman” Gore took a major step in his young career last weekend, making the move from the Mini category into the OKNJ class for the second round of the WSK Final Cup, held at the Cremona Circuit from November 6–9. The jump comes shortly after turning 11 years old, marking an early transition into the Juniors as Gore begins preparing for a full OKNJ campaign in 2026.

Axeman in action at Cremona after moving up to the OKNJ class

Following discussions between Axel, his family, his management team at Road to Success, and his race team Team Driver, all parties agreed that Axel was physically and mentally ready for the next step. His natural driving style — one that thrives with higher cornering speeds and engine power on exits — is also far more suited to the faster, more demanding Junior machinery.

A test conducted immediately after Round 1 of the WSK Final Cup confirmed the decision in emphatic fashion, with Gore showing stunning pace, including lap times quicker than the pole position benchmark from the weekend before. His ability to adapt quickly, handle the increased g-forces, and deliver high-speed consistency demonstrated he was more than ready for the challenge.

With the move designed as a low-pressure learning weekend, the goal at Cremona was clear: gather data, gain experience, and continue adapting to the much faster OKNJ package. Testing began in wet conditions, and Gore stunned all by managing to be the fastest driver on track. As the circuit dried in the days that followed, he again showcased impressive speed, recording theoretical lap times capable of running at the front of the field despite traffic and a small error on his push lap.

Qualifying was approached with development in mind, with the priority being to complete laps on new tyres rather than chasing slipstreams. Even so, Gore finished just 0.6 seconds off pole in a stacked field of 65 drivers — a remarkable result in his first Junior qualifying session.

In Heat 1, Gore delivered a strong drive, climbing from P27 to P21 with confident overtakes and solid race pace. His forward momentum was disrupted in the remaining eliminatory heats, where a DNF in Heat 2 and opening-lap contact in Heat 3 halted his progress despite showing the speed to move forward.

The Prefinal once again highlighted Gore’s rapid adaptation to the class. After a strong opening phase and immediate gains through the field, contact on the pit straight while overtaking caused him and another driver to touch wheels, ending his race prematurely.

Although results were secondary this weekend, the speed, learning, and rapid development were the most important takeaways. Gore leaves Round 2 with a clear understanding of the demands of Junior racing, confidence in his pace, and a strong foundation to build on heading into the winter break.

Reflecting his debut in the OKNJ class, Gore said:

“Moving to OKNJ was a big step, but I loved every minute of it. The kart is so much faster and fits my driving style really well. I learned a huge amount each session. The results don’t show our real speed, but this weekend was about experience, and now I can’t wait for 2026.”

The jump to OKNJ marks a defining milestone for the 11-year-old, and with the final round of the WSK Final Cup taking place at Lonato from November 18–23, Gore will gain another valuable taste of Junior competition as he prepares for a full 2026 season in the category.

ENDS