Russell Launches Fully-Funded Karting Academy at Silverstone

George Russell has launched the GR63 Karting Academy at Silverstone, a fully funded pathway for eight- and nine-year-olds who might otherwise be priced out of motorsport. Twenty-five drivers will receive an all-expenses-covered eight-round championship in 2027, with the overall winner earning a funded karting season in 2028.

Why it matters:

Karting remains F1's primary talent pipeline, but rising costs have turned it into a sport for wealthy families. Russell is putting his name — and his money — behind a route that removes the financial barrier at the earliest stage, exactly where most promising kids quietly drop out.

The details:

• Entry: arrive-and-drive qualifying at Silverstone's kart track from December 6–31, 2026, at £25. Open to boys and girls aged eight and nine with citizenship of a Commonwealth country.
• The cut: the 80 fastest progress to a January 31, 2027 shootout, entry £75.
• The championship: 25 drivers selected for an eight-round series from March to November 2027, each round on a different Silverstone layout. All costs covered, plus overalls, helmet, gloves and boots.
• The final: the top five are judged on lap times, fitness, racecraft and media skills, with the winner handed a fully funded 2028 season.
• The backing: Silverstone and the BRDC support the project, with president David Coulthard calling it an investment in Britain's motorsport future. Russell will mentor participants throughout.

"Karting is where it all started for me, and it taught me everything I've relied on throughout my career," Russell said. "I know how hard it is for talented young drivers to get that first opportunity, especially when budgets are tight."

What's next:

Qualifying opens next month, with the first 25-driver cohort confirmed by early 2027. The academy's real measure will be whether its alumni resurface in British F4 and the wider F1 feeder ladder.