George Russell has launched a karting academy at Silverstone for eight- and nine-year-olds in Britain. Selected entrants will contest a fully funded championship for 25 drivers in 2027. Its top five will reach a final assessment, with the winner receiving support for the 2028 karting season. Russell will mentor participants. Opening selection sessions will be held in December.
George Russell has established the GR63 Karting Academy, his young-driver programme at Britain’s Silverstone circuit, for girls and boys aged eight and nine. Russell will provide mentoring. The academy aims to help talented children whose families struggle with the expense of motor sport. Selected entrants will contest a championship whose costs are covered for 25 drivers.[1], [2]
The opening sessions take place from 6 to 31 December. The fastest 80 entrants progress to a shootout on 31 January 2027, including practice and qualifying races. From that group, 25 drivers will contest eight championship rounds between March and November 2027. They will use different circuit layouts, gaining experience of varied driving conditions during the season.[1]
The championship’s top five will attend a final assessment in December 2027. Alongside lap times, it will consider racecraft, fitness and media skills. The winner will receive funding for the 2028 karting season. The programme provides racing equipment, including helmets and overalls. British Racing Drivers’ Club president David Coulthard has also supported the initiative at Silverstone.[1]
