Maltese karting driver Jessica Calleja has brought her 2026 ROK Cup Championship campaign to a close after a weekend that combined promising qualifying pace with a difficult race day.
Calleja qualified second in her group and fourth overall, giving her a strong start to the final championship weekend.
The result continued a season of international competition for the young Maltese driver. Official ROK Cup Italy standings confirm Calleja competed in the Junior ROK category during 2026.
A difficult race day
Race day proved considerably tougher. Calleja went from third to sixth in the first heat before a difficult second heat saw her fall from third to 16th.
She then started the final from 16th position, but her race ended with a DNF after a technical problem involving the rear bumper.
Despite the disappointing finish, Calleja said she was encouraged by the pace shown during the weekend and what she and the team had achieved in qualifying.
Another season racing in Italy
Calleja has been building experience in Italian karting over recent seasons. In 2025, she competed at circuits including Franciacorta and South Garda, stepping up to Junior competition and racing against sizeable international fields.
Her latest campaign was with Marra61 Kart Racing Team A.S.D., with Calleja thanking the team and mechanic Davide Brangero for their support throughout the year.
The championship may now be over, but her 2026 season is not finished. Calleja said her next target is the ROK Cup Super Final, giving the Maltese driver another opportunity to compete on the international karting stage.
