The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has approved the first karting seat with roll-hoop attachment to facilitate the participation of disabled drivers in karting events.

Following approval from the World Motor Sport Council today, the fiberglass high seat features an innovative lamination developed by Vita Carbon for enhanced impact resistance. It can be used in karting races aligned to the FIA Karting Guidelines for Drivers with Disabilities document. Designed with an integrated roll hoop, the seat provides additional attachment points for competitors who require safety-belt anchoring for torso stability, offering drivers with disabilities additional support to enable them to race safely.

Development of the device was led by FIA Disability & Accessibility Commission member and paraplegic driver Fabio Visentin and Vita Carbon, with the support of the FIA safety department. It is envisaged that the seat, which is optional for drivers with disabilities competing in karting, will support a new generation of disabled racers into the entry point of motorsport.

Visentin said, “The development and testing of this new roll hoop represent a significant step forward for the safety of karters with disabilities. Ensuring that every driver can compete with the highest protection standards is our top priority. Our goal was to create a product that was not only safe and rigorously tested but also high performing, ensuring it does not interfere with the chassis’ flexibility. Karters with disabilities now have access to a product that has all these features, and I want to thank Vita Carbon for the development and the FIA for their support in this project.”

FIA safety director Nuno Costa added, “Safety should complement accessibility, and we’ve been proud to work on this project with Fabio to raise safety standards for karting drivers with disabilities. The karting high seat is a simple but important innovation that facilitates drivers to safely compete, and I hope it will provide every karting driver with disabilities with greater confidence and independence.”

As a result of today’s decision, homologated karting high seats up to 32cm have been approved with immediate effect in karting events. It is expected that they will first be deployed at races in early 2026.

In related news, WRC set for UK return with Rally Scotland

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Following its third meeting, the FIA World Motor Sport Council has announced new regulations for sustainable energy and e-karting and minor amendments to the Formula 1 Technical Regulations.

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said, “So far, this year has been one of growth as we see partnerships and championships go from strength to strength. We have accelerated our organization’s digital transformation – empowering our members with the introduction of the cutting-edge FIA Digital Licensing Platform with an ongoing investment of over €1.6m (US$1.8m).”

Sustainable energy for all motorsport

The World Council has approved Article 266, which defines the general regulatory framework applicable to all energy sources used in FIA competitions, namely liquid fuels, electric power and hydrogen (both liquid and gaseous).

Its objective is to establish common principles that ensure safety and promote the transition toward sustainable mobility. It details specific provisions related to each energy type and is the first time this information has been made available as a singular resource.

Regulatory updates: Formula 1 

As the process of finalizing the new Concorde Governance Agreement for the FIA Formula 1 World Championship nears its conclusion, the World Council approved minor changes to the 2026 Technical Regulations. The revisions relate to the survival cell, suspension, aerodynamic components and power unit, to the Power Unit Financial Regulations and to the Operational Regulations.

The most significant of these changes relates to the ADUO concept (Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities), which is intended to provide greater development opportunities for PU manufacturers who find themselves significantly behind their competition in terms of performance. Performance will be measured between all power units continuously, and after Races 6, 12 and 18 ADUO could be allocated to address such a situation.

Rally commission

The World Council has approved the creation of an RC6 class for Rally6 Group cars – an entry level specification designed to be as cost effective as possible, particularly in terms of the running costs. These vehicles will be based on: a four-seater, two-wheel drive ICE car; standard 1.6T or 2.0 NA engine with competition ECU; power-to-weight ratio of 7.5kg/hp (e.g. 1,050kg/140hp),H-pattern gearbox, production brakes and tires; non-adjustable competition shock absorbers; and safety level equivalent to Rally5-Kit.

Karting

Karting has additional technical and homologation regulations for junior and senior e-karting, expanding upon the existing e-karting technical regulations.

Junior and senior classes are limited to 60V, with centrally positioned batteries. Following extensive testing, the FIA will now homologate electric drivetrains, with power capped at 23kW for junior and 28kW for senior classes.

Akbar Ebrahim, FIA Karting commission president, said, “E-karting presents a significant opportunity to contribute to the continued growth of global karting and these regulations will unlock fresh possibilities for events and championships around the world. With the launch of new e-karting classes, the inaugural Arrive and Drive Continental Championships and the largest FIA Karting calendar to date, 2026 is shaping up to be a golden year for karting.”

In related news, Mopar joins Team Peugeot TotalEnergies for 2026 WEC

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Willow Springs International Raceway has unveiled the extensive renovations to two of its most popular tracks, marking the first chapter in the next era for the Southern California facility.

The 1.8-mile Streets of Willow Springs road course and 0.625-mile kart track have both undergone significant investment and modernization to improve safety and upgrade the overall on-track experience. The unveiling revealed updates to both circuits, including repaved tracks and extensive painting in the raceway’s green and off-white color scheme.

The Streets of Willow Springs and kart track have both been upgraded with asphalt to replace the track surfaces, new internal and external curbs, grading and added gravel along the track perimeter, a runoff around the circuit, and branded striping and logos in the runoff areas, curbs and track perimeter.

In addition to these improvements, three new chicanes have been added to the Streets of Willow Springs layout for track extension and safety. With a continued focus on safety, the facility says that it will also add tire barriers, Armco and air fence to the circuits, with work expected to be completed during the autumn.

“We are excited to preserve the history of Willow Springs while continuing to make improvements that establish it as the premier venue for motorsport enthusiasts of all kinds,” said Sam Byrne, co-founder of CrossHarbor Capital Partners and representative of the Willow Springs ownership group.

“This is just the first phase of our plans for this iconic facility, and we’re excited to show off the work we’ve completed so far at the Willow Springs Reimagined event on October 11.”

In related news, Kiwa certifies grandstand barriers at Silverstone

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Lenovo and Gruppo CRG have announced a multi-year partnership that will see Lenovo become the group’s technology partner to expand its technical capabilities through advanced telemetry and data analytics while optimizing kart production at its headquarters. As part of the agreement, Lenovo will also become title sponsor of the renamed Lenovo Kalì Kart Team, dedicated to developing promising young drivers under the age of 16.

Founded in 1960 in Lonato del Garda, Italy, Kalì Kart has been owned since 1986 by Gruppo CRG.

“Our partnership with Lenovo will provide strategic resources to the most talented drivers on their path toward professional motorsports, and help us set a new standard for innovation and high performance on global karting circuits by delivering the technology needed to succeed in the most competitive international championships,” commented Marco Angeletti, marketing director at Gruppo CRG.

“With Lenovo’s support, we will greatly enhance the quality of our design and production processes by leveraging the most advanced AI tools. We’ve already begun integrating Lenovo’s cutting-edge technology, with impressive results in data analysis – both on track and remotely – as well as in simulations.”

To support the next phase of its development, the group has partnered with Lenovo to upgrade its technology infrastructure. The collaboration includes high-performance workstations, AI PCs and servers, Motorola smartphones, and other digital solutions. These technologies will be integrated across various areas of the group’s operations, including data acquisition and analysis, vehicle design, aerodynamic simulation and remote collaboration.

Lenovo’s technology will also support driver development. Lenovo devices will be used for coaching, enabling young athletes to analyze their performance and understand their driving style.

“We are proud to continue Lenovo’s strong legacy in motorsports by partnering with Gruppo CRG. Motorsports are the perfect testing ground for our technology, pushing it to the limit in demanding, mission-critical environments and showcasing how innovation can enhance operations, improve performance and create better experiences for all,” added Alberto Spinelli, EMEA CMO at Lenovo.

“This partnership is especially meaningful as it will enable us to contribute to the growth and education of the next generation of drivers – giving them the tools they need to become faster drivers, stronger team players and ultimately, more complete athletes and individuals.”

In related news, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) recently announced that the 2025 FIA Karting World Championship will be supported by an e-sports event organized by the Swedish national sporting authority (ASN) 

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The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has announced that the 2025 FIA Karting World Championship (September 11-14) will be supported by an e-sports event organized by the Swedish national sporting authority (ASN). The initiative aims to showcase the diverse grassroots pathways available for participation in motorsport.

Since the World Motor Sport Council recognized e-sports as an official discipline of motorsport by adding it to the FIA International Sporting Code in 2023, the FIA has organized major international events, including the FIA Motorsport Games Esports Cup.

E-sports “offers a unique opportunity to engage with new communities across the world”, the FIA says, adding that the combined e-sports and karting event at the FIA Karting World Championship supports its mission to create accessible pathways from virtual racing to real-world motorsport.

Vincent Caro, FIA head of circuit grassroots disciplinesand activities, said, “Bringing together karting and e-sports at the 2025 FIA Karting World Championship underscores the FIA’s commitment to grassroots investment and expanding the ways people can engage with motorsport.

“All the equipment that the SBF will set up for the competition between senior karting drivers will remain in place throughout the weekend of the event, so that all visitors and spectators tempted by an e-sports experience can try out the simulators for free.

“This activation also makes the experience of visiting an FIA event even more attractive to the public. Accessibility is central to the FIA’s Global Karting Plan and this initiative is a major step toward growing participation and opening new entry points into the sport.”

Jessica Bjurström, chair of Svenska Bilsportförbundet, said, “We’re really excited to be able to host an e-sports competition when the FIA Karting World Championship comes to Kristianstad in September. E-sports is a growing discipline and this a great opportunity for more people to get involved with the thrills of motorsport, whether on-track or on-screen.”

The event will be held at the Åsum Ring, Kristianstad, and will use 12 racing sims to stage a dynamic racing competition during the championship weekend. The competition has been registered on the International Sporting Calendar and will be officiated by a group of international stewards appointed by the ASN.

Entries are open for any individual aged 14+ that holds an international Llcense. The virtual competition will use the iRacing title and, in line with the ambitions of most young karting drivers, the FIA F4 category has been chosen for the competition.

In related news, the FIA World Rally Championship is taking place in Paraguay for the first time, with a strong 48-car entry list confirmed for its landmark debut this month. Read the full story here

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The Touring and Automobile Club of Peru (TACP) has received the FIA’s José Abed Award, in recognition of its safe driving program Vía Rápida a la Seguridad.

The award was introduced in 2023, in memory of José Abed, the former president of Omdai and Mexico F1 promoter. Each year, the award is given to a motorsport club that has driven progress across knowledge-promotion, motor sport participation, regional empowerment, or sport and mobility synergy within North and South America.

TACP’s program – Vía Rápida a la Seguridad – provides training for school-aged karting drivers. Judges of the awards noted that the program helps to encourage synergies between sport and mobility.

The award was presented during the FIA’s American Congress, an annual event held for mobility and motorsport clubs within North and South America. Brazilian Club CBA and TACP Paraguay were also finalists for the award.

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who presented the award, said, “I am delighted to present the second annual Jose Abed award, in memory of my great friend and colleague. TACP’s spectacular work promoting safe driving is a spectacular tribute to Mr Abed, and his lifetime of hard work within the sector.”

Iván Dibós, president of TACP, said, “We feel truly proud of what we have achieved. We are sharing experiences with other clubs and that is reflected in our results.”

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The UK’s National Motorsport Academy (NMA) has announced a partnership with the Global Karting League (GKL) as its official education partner, widening the educational opportunities for young people aged 6-16 within the motorsport industry. With 500,000 unfulfilled STEM job roles in the UK and many young drivers often skipping formal education to pursue a professional driving career, the NMA has set out to help mitigate this situation.

Founded by ex-F1 engineer Rob Smedley, GKL is an all-electric electric karting championship, dedicated to providing an affordable pathway to the top of motorsport. As part of GKL’s STEM learning program, racers receive free formal education, including race coaching and data analytics, alongside comprehensive training modules in STEM subjects. These modules are designed not only to enhance technical skills but also to provide a strong educational background that can be applied to various career paths within and outside of motorsport.

The NMA will leverage its 35 years of experience to play a role in developing the STEM resources used in GKL’s program. These resources are tailored for each cohort of racing talent, significantly improving the educational experience for all racers involved with GKL, regardless of age or ability. In addition, the NMA will work to engage with GKL racers during select events. Their team of experienced NMA tutors will provide interactive speaker sessions and hands-on activities during race day breaks.

These sessions will cover a wide range of topics, from the latest advances in racing technology to practical mechanical skills, ensuring that racers gain a comprehensive understanding of the sport. This direct engagement aims to further enhance the learning experience for GKL racers, maximizing their potential both on and off the track.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Global Karting League as their education partner,” said Dr Kieran Reeves, director of motorsport at the NMA. “ It is excellent to see the vision from GKL: not only will the participants be taking part in kart racing but they will have to follow an engineering academic program for their appropriate age group.

“We are excited to assist with this development that ensures racers will be gaining valuable STEM knowledge throughout their driving career. It means that they will have a mechanical background to further assist their chosen careers as they age.”

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“Based on this, the 2024 edition will now include an additional class in the Mini category. With this inclusion, we expect over 116 karting participants in Valencia, 44 Mini, 36 Junior, 36 Senior, plus 24 teams in Endurance.

“We continue to see growth in the arrival-and-drive concept, be it leisure kart or FIA-CIK-approved or homologated equipment. This concept opens up the sport to a wider demographic giving opportunities to even more talented drivers. It is great to see its popularity continuing, and it is definitely here to stay.”

The Karting competitions will take place on an unique configuration of the Aspar Circuit, located just 25km away from Valencia, with track action beginning on Friday, October 25 and concluding Sunday, October 27.

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This year is shaping up to be the year of the electric race series, with a host of competitions announced. The latest is the Electroheads e-kart race series, the brainchild of former Ferrari and Williams F1 engineer Rob Smedley, which held its first race this week following a delay to the series launch due to Covid-19.

Smedley, who heads up Electroheads’ motorsport division, explained how the electric karts will change the way that budding racers take their first step on the racing ladder forever. “Our ambition has always been to make it far easier – and cheaper – for the next generation of racers to experience the awe of motorsport; we want to bring the know-how and skills learned at the very highest level in Formula 1 to the grassroots to make that happen,” he said.

“As Lewis Hamilton himself said recently, racing faces some real challenges. It lacks diversity; it’s too expensive; and for too many children it doesn’t even make it on to their radar as an option. That has to change.”

By simplifying and reducing the cost of entry-level racing, the series hopes to break down existing barriers to entry thereby making it easier for more new drivers and their families to get involved. Entrants will be able to compete in equal karts that have been designed, tested and prepared by Smedley and his team of engineers.

The series will operate on an ‘arrive and drive’ basis, and will provide racers with everything they need to go racing – be it a half-day ‘taster’ for a complete novice, or as a competitor in a full race weekend. The organizers said they have gone to great lengths to ensure each competitor has precisely the same power available and the team will be transparent about sharing that data, so all competitors can see that absolute drivetrain parity exists.

As part of the same ethos, Smedley will be calling on two decades of experience to boost the performance and development of racers. “At a race meeting, every driver can call on me and my engineers to help them understand the fundamentals of racing and developing as a driver. We want every child that joins ‘Team Electroheads’ to feel like they are learning and having fun in a world that really isn’t too different to a Formula 1 pitlane,” he said.

“Our karts offer a credible pathway to those that want to compete at the highest levels of motorsport and our philosophy is to pass on the technical learnings forged from many years at the forefront of motorsport . And because we offer complete technological parity, the principal performance differentiator is going to be driver talent. Democratic. Meritocratic. Sustainable. That’s why we’re here.”

The 2020 race series will be launched across two kart categories: Bambino and Cadet. The entry-level Bambino karts are powered by 3kW electric powertrains in a chassis developed by specialists Birel Art. With an age span of 6-8 years old, the Bambino class is aimed strictly at teaching the youngest drivers the basics of kart driving before they climb the ranks of racing. From aged 8-12, drivers can race in more powerful 5kW Cadet machines.

As part of the powertrain development program, advanced virtual powertrain simulations were carried out by ex-Formula 1 engineers to create an electric kart powertrain that the series says has no equal. Smedley noted, “The challenge of designing an electric kart that matches or exceeds the performance of a traditional petrol-engined one is huge. Karts are the lightest, most nimble race machines imaginable and standard electrification and battery technologies add far too much weight.

“It was imperative that we brought to market something that was aligned to the top level of racing karts. We’ve brought F1 engineering principles to the creation of our powertrains and have been able to build something that is as light, quick and agile as a standard kart. On top of that, our powertrains will be cheap and easy to run. It really is a win-win and I hope this brings younger people into a sport that has given me so many special opportunities.”

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I write this column for any deluded parents. When I was growing up, the path to racing success was thus: Formula Ford or similar as early as 17 years old if your parents loved you enough, then a step up to Formula Renault or similar. If the folks still had any budget left, it was British F3 and then, maybe by the time you were 28, someone in F1 might notice the depth of your talent, or your parents’ bank balance. And there was always the World Series by Renault if you weren’t quick enough for F3.

In my day, karting was for hobbyists and certainly not an essential grounding. Old men who didn’t have a rich daddy when a child went karting. GT racing? Well that was where retired/failed F1 drivers earned a meager living. Those who did not make the grade in single-seater racing simply stopped, and at best had an Autosport feature written about them a decade or more later, relating how they were quicker than Senna but ran out of budget.

Today, karting is king. Parents start their children racing as young as three years old. Then they can get into racing cars at 14 in series such as the Ginetta Junior series. Thereafter the prodigies have a failed year in a single-seater and then come to race against me in GTs…

When they arrive, these children look at 43-year-old me as done, washed up. Easy meat. (Actually, they look at anyone over the age of 21 as old.) The kids get driven to the circuit by Mama or Dada as they are too young to drive on public roads. Then they drive on circuit against me, spending their inheritance as they try to send one up the inside from too far back.

Daddy listens to the team principal, who secretly knows the offspring isn’t nearly good enough to get picked up – and even if he or she is, the chances of landing a Red Bull contract is near zero – but that team principal is going to milk every cent until daddy realizes it.

Career? Do me a favor! Your boy or girl can’t even out-qualify amateur-racer-me, who started hobby-karting at 28 years old and raced a bunch of other old blokes in a Caterham at 31 years old. I sit at a desk all day running a business – or as now, on a plane traveling to the States to oversee the operation of one of our exhibitions. I last sat in a race car a month ago and I won’t do so again until March 2018. Even then I’ll do just three test days all year and a mere seven race weekends. The gym? I call that my ‘quiet place’ because my daughters don’t go in there. Exercise? It’s got a TV on the wall and thus ‘going to my gym’ is the only time I get to watch racing. Meanwhile little Jonny is exercising his already naturally fit, fat-free teenage body for hours every day in preparation for racing glory. When not in the gym, he’s in the simulator. And when not in the simulator he’s playing racing games on the PlayStation Grandma bought him. Or he’s polishing his helmet.

My 35-year-old team mate Mike Robinson – who works with me five days a weeks here at PMW Towers – and I call ourselves the ‘career wreckers’, the idea being that if you can’t beat us, you’ve zero chance of getting picked up and paid to drive. Mike and I are reasonable peddlers, but trust me, we both know we’d be whooped by genuine Hamilton-like talent. Before I started racing cars, I’d picked up over 14 years of terrible road-driving habits, especially as I had a decade-long career as a motoring journalist, where my job was to go sideways, not fast.

And so dear mommies and daddies, think twice before you reach for your wallets. Perhaps the race formula was right back in my day – let your proudest achievement make their own way in life. Trust me, little Jonny will get far more benefit from your money when you are dead than if you waste it on four-wheeled fun when he’s too young to even understand money. Oh, and yes – my daughters have started karting!­­­

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