George Russell searches for F1’s next star with new karting academy

George Russell has announced the launch of GR63 Academy, a karting programme designed to give young talents a chance when their families struggle to fund their first steps in motorsport. The project is based at Silverstone and supported by the British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC).

A chance for the “hidden stars”

The Mercedes driver explained that he understands the challenges facing children with speed and ambition but limited budgets. His aim is to discover those “hidden stars” and provide the support and guidance they need to develop. Russell thanked Silverstone and the BRDC for helping bring the initiative to life.

For the Briton, it is an opportunity to give something back to the sport that laid the foundations of his own career. In the video preceding the launch, he recalled growing up around racetracks thanks to his older brother Benjy and starting karting properly at seven. Karting helped shape his skills as a racing driver.

How will drivers be selected?

In its first year, the programme is aimed at eight- and nine-year-olds. Selection begins with 15-minute sessions at Kart Silverstone between 11 and 31 December 2026, costing £25 per session.

A total of 80 drivers will progress to the next stage on 31 January 2027. Practice sessions and qualifying races will determine the 25 drivers who earn places in the academy’s championship. Entry to this selection stage costs £75.

Eight fully funded rounds

The selected children will compete in eight rounds between March and November 2027, using different layouts at Silverstone. Championship participation is fully funded, with every driver receiving a race suit, helmet, gloves and boots.

The ultimate prize

The top five finishers will advance to a final selection event in December 2027. Assessment will cover speed, racecraft, physical fitness and media skills. The winner will receive a fully funded karting season in 2028.

GR63 Academy therefore offers young drivers a concrete next step: an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities in a championship with funded participation.

Sources: GR63 Academy, RacingNews365, Motorsport.com.

Photo: Steffen Prößdorf / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.