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The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the primary global authority for motor racing, has initiated a significant program to support emerging talent in karting through extensive driver development workshops. This initiative aligns with the inaugural FIA Karting Arrive and Drive World Cup, taking place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, marking a pivotal moment in the motorsport arena.
With 107 drivers from various nations participating, the FIA aims to reshape its support for the next generation of motorsport athletes. The workshops are designed to foster the personal and professional growth of young drivers while enhancing safety standards and racing practices across the sport.
Comprehensive workshops for holistic development
Participants in the event have access to four distinct workshops that are specifically designed to enrich their racing experience. A crucial session led by the FIA’s Safety Department focuses on current safety regulations, emphasizing the importance of using homologated equipment and the dangers associated with counterfeit gear. This session is essential, as it outlines the potential risks posed by non-compliant equipment.
Nutrition and media training
In addition to safety, a workshop on nutrition and anti-doping offers practical insights into maintaining healthy habits vital for optimal racing performance. Young drivers are also gaining valuable skills in a media training session, which equips them with effective communication techniques necessary for cultivating their public personas in a competitive landscape.
Understanding karting rankings and future opportunities
An informative session on the National Karting Ranking System is another key aspect of the workshops. This framework establishes a standardized method for measuring driver performance across various events, whether national, regional, or international. Understanding this system is crucial for competitors aiming to evaluate their progress and opportunities within the sport.
The workshops form part of the FIA’s broader vision, outlined in the Global Karting Plan, launched in the previous year. This initiative seeks to promote greater accessibility, affordability, and participation in grassroots motorsport. The year 2025 is already anticipated to set records, with a remarkable 25% increase in entries compared to the prior year, showcasing participation from 86 nationalities.
A promising future for karting
Looking forward, 2026 is expected to be a landmark year for FIA Karting, featuring an expanded calendar and the introduction of three new continental arrive-and-drive championships. These new formats aim to enhance the accessibility of motorsport to a broader audience worldwide.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the significance of this competition, stating, “This event is not merely about racing; it represents the future of motorsport. The workshops we provided illustrate our commitment to the development of young drivers and underscore our dedication to the sport’s future.” He expressed confidence that the thrilling and competitive racing will embody the true spirit of karting.
Echoing this view, Akbar Ebrahim, FIA Karting Commission President, remarked, “Our support for upcoming motorsport champions extends well beyond the racetrack. Initiatives like these workshops are fundamental in investing in the sport’s future.”
As the FIA Karting Arrive and Drive World Cup commences at the LYL International Circuit, the global motorsport community is watching closely. The event is poised to showcase talent and serve as a driving force behind the FIA’s mission to elevate grassroots motorsport.