Leading the FIM Junior World Trophy competition, Sweden is currently enjoying an incredible FIM International Six Day’s Enduro (ISDE).
Midway through, they top the classification by almost twelve minutes. The trio of Albin Norrbin (Fantic), Max Ahlin (KTM), and Axel Semb (Husqvarna) are doing it in style by locking out the top three Junior positions each day, while finishing well within the top fifteen of the overall individual classification too.
As a nation steeped in enduro heritage, it is incredibly welcoming to see Sweden return to top of the 6DAYS® like this and bodes well for the future. As Norrbin commented after another tough day in the saddle, Sweden is back in the game…
“Things are going brilliant so far,” says Norrbin. “All three of us are riding great, pushing hard, but knowing the limit too. To be leading the way in Juniors, while also fighting hard in the overall classification, is so nice.
“As Swedes, we’ve needed some results like this for a while in the ISDE – it’s cool to have Sweden back in the game.”
In 2022 at the 6DAYS® in France, the potential was there for a similar performance, although a technical issue on day one put Norrbin out of the running. Arriving in San Juan somewhat under the radar, it feels like they have caught everyone by surprise with their pace.
The dusty, rocky terrain in Argentina is far removed from the vast forests of Sweden, so what is their secret?
“For sure Argentina is nothing like what we’ve got back at home in Sweden to ride. There it’s more traditional forests, but by racing the Enduro World Championship and training in places like Italy and Spain it has helped us a lot. I think we’ve learned to adapt quite quickly to conditions and that’s helping a lot here in Argentina.”
Sweden last won the FIM Junior World Trophy competition in Spain in 2016. Now, with a twelve-minute lead as they head into the second part of the week, are they thinking about standing on the top step of the podium once more?
“There’s still a long way to go, but it would be incredible. Enduro is part of Sweden and I really do hope this is now our time to fight for victories.
“Everyone involved in the ISDE effort with Sweden puts so much time and energy into getting us here and giving us everything we need. Max, Axel and I want to do our best to take home the trophy for them.”
