Formula 1 star George Russell launches Silverstone karting academy to find future racing champions
“I know how hard it is for talented young drivers to get that first opportunity, especially when budgets are tight.” – George Russell
Young racing enthusiasts could follow in the footsteps of Formula 1 star George Russell after he launched a new karting academy at Silverstone offering fully funded opportunities to talented children.
The British driver has unveiled the GR63 Karting Academy, which will give 25 youngsters the chance to compete in an eight-round championship at the Northamptonshire circuit next year.
Open to boys and girls aged eight and nine, the initiative aims to discover promising drivers whose families might otherwise struggle to afford the costs of competitive motorsport.
Qualifying sessions will take place at Silverstone Kart Track from December 6 to 31, costing £25 per entry.
The fastest 80 youngsters will progress to a shootout on January 31, 2027, where practice sessions and qualifying races will determine the final 25 competitors.
Those selected will take part in a fully funded championship between March and November, racing across eight different circuit configurations.
Each driver will receive racing equipment, including overalls, helmets, gloves and boots, with no championship costs to pay.
The five highest-placed drivers will then compete in a final assessment in December 2027, testing their driving ability, fitness, racecraft and media skills.
The overall winner will secure a fully funded karting season in 2028.
Russell, who began his motorsport career in karting, hopes the academy will remove financial barriers preventing talented youngsters from progressing.
He said: “Karting is where it all started for me, and it taught me everything I've relied on throughout my career.
“I know how hard it is for talented young drivers to get that first opportunity, especially when budgets are tight.
“With the GR63 Karting Academy, I want to give something back by finding those hidden talents and giving them the support and platform they need to reach their potential.”
The programme has been developed with Silverstone and the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC), which owns the circuit.
BRDC president David Coulthard said the organisation had a longstanding commitment to supporting emerging British motorsport talent.
He added: “The GR63 Academy captures that ethos perfectly, and we are delighted to work with George to support the next generation of drivers here at Silverstone.”
Families can book qualifying sessions through the Silverstone website, with the academy's championship beginning next March.