Paralympian turned racing ace Andreas Kapfinger enters NXT Gen Cup
NXT Gen Cup continues to attract racers from diverse backgrounds. The latest addition to the 2025 roster is Austrian Andreas Kapfinger, whose athletic journey is truly one of a kind.
Kapfinger’s path into motorsport is nothing short of remarkable: he began as a successful snowboarder and extreme sports rider until a life-changing accident in 1997. However, his ambition and tireless determination propelled him toward new achievements that most can only dream of.
After transitioning to monoskiing, Kapfinger represented Austria in the Paralympics four times and became the country's first-ever parabob athlete. He later turned his focus to motorsport, taking up karting during the latter stages of his winter sports career. In 2022, Kapfinger made his touring car debut in a modified Golf 6 in the Hankook Cup- und Tourenwagen Trophy.
The 2025 NXT Gen Cup season marks a new chapter on his motorsport journey, and the Reith im Alpbachtal native is eager to take on the challenge.
“Challenging myself has always been part of my journey – whether in monoskisport, parabob, or now motorsport. What fascinates me about NXT Gen Cup is the level playing field: same cars, same tyres, same opportunities. It's all about pure driving skill and mindset – and I’m ready to prove myself,” said Andreas Kapfinger.
Racing electric touring cars will be a new experience for Kapfinger, who will use a specially modified car that allows him to control both throttle and brake by hand.
“I've always been fascinated by the idea of electric racing – it's a whole new dimension of motorsport. NXT Gen Cup is one of the first all-electric series, and being part of something so innovative truly excites me. I expect to adapt quickly to the car and deliver my best on track,” Kapfinger continued.
With Andreas Kapfinger joining the grid—now nearing 18 entrants ahead of the 2025 season—the championship gains a uniquely inspiring and competitive addition.
“I've had the pleasure of getting to know Andreas while we spent a few days together modifying the LRT NXT1 car to suit his needs. He's not only a great person, but also incredibly focused and determined. I'm proud and happy to have him in our championship, and I'm excited to see what he can achieve!” said Fredrik Lestrup, founder of NXT Gen Cup.
NXT Gen Cup will once again race alongside DTM—Europe’s premier and most recognized racing series—across four race weekends from April to August.
Interested in joining NXT Gen Cup? Learn more here.
2025 NXT Gen Cup Calendar
12-13 April - Official Test Days - Gelleråsen Arena - Sweden
25-27 April - Oschersleben - Germany
04-06 July - Norisring - Germany
08-10 August - Nürburgring - Germany
22-24 August - Sachsenring - Germany
19-20 September - Swedish Junior Championship - Mantorp Park - Sweden
About NXT Gen Cup
The NXT Gen Cup is the world’s first 100% electric junior touring car cup where young female and male drivers race the LRT NXT1, a fully electric race car based on the MINI Cooper SE road car - engineered and built by Lestrup Racing Team. The series races together with DTM and is organised through an “arrive and drive” concept, enabling the junior drivers to focus on driving and creating the foundation for a professional racing career.
About DTM
DTM is Europe’s premier and best-known racing series and celebrated its 40th birthday in 2024. As one of the most competitive racing series, DTM features seven prestigious brands in its anniversary season. The DTM has a German core, but a strong international fan base. Races are broadcasted live in 150 territories. The series is also a leader in sustainable motorsport. For the second season, all cars are powered by a sustainable fuel made of 50% renewable components. Not only the cars racing in DTM are in the centre of sustainable projects. For the events itself the ADAC as promoter of the DTM offers innovations like an initiative to reduce plastic waste and a digital carpool solution, which has been recognised and awarded by the FIA.