Fourteen-year-old Matteis Stigsen from Langeskov on Funen has become the youngest Danish champion ever in Formula 4, winning the title in his first season in a formula car.
The result was reported by DR on August 30, 2026. According to DR, Stigsen went into the final race of the season in a close points battle with the series leader.
He told DR that he was very nervous before the deciding race, but that the driving itself went smoothly. He described the win as lifting a heavy weight of pressure and stress off his shoulders.
In Formula 4, Stigsen reaches speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour. Away from the track, he trains in a racing simulator six times a week, according to DR.
Stigsen began go-karting at the age of six, one of many sports pursued by Danish children. He turned 14 in March 2026, which made him old enough to move from karting into a race car.
A dream that involves the whole family
His father, Jonas Stigsen, told DR that the family gives up a great deal for the racing. They turn down events with family, friends and work in order to travel to races with Matteis.
Jonas Stigsen said he does not think the ambition takes up too much space in family life. Younger brother Theodor, who is eight, always travels along and has taken over Matteis’ old go-kart.
The teenager’s grandparents also carry part of the load. During race weeks they travel in a motorhome with Matteis, while his mother, father and younger brother stay home on Funen.
As reported by DR, the family estimates the grandparents and Matteis have spent around half a year in total living in the motorhome. Race weeks usually leave only a couple of free days.
On those days Matteis is homeschooled by his grandmother, Rikke Stigsen. She told DR that she resigned from her job in order to follow him to races, and that she does it for his sake.
Rikke Stigsen said acquaintances have questioned the family’s priorities and reminded them of friends at home. She said the time with Matteis and the family will not come again, and that the choice has been worth it.
Matteis Stigsen said his biggest dream is to reach Formula 1, where only 22 drivers compete in a season. If that does not happen, he told DR, he would still like to make a living from motorsport. His next race is at Padborg Park.
