Russell launches fully-funded new karting academy
Mercedes Formula 1 driver George Russell has launched a new karting academy at Silverstone aimed at developing the next generation of motorsport talent, with 25 young drivers set to receive a fully funded championship opportunity in 2027.
The GR63 Karting Academy will be open to boys and girls aged eight and nine, with Russell hoping to provide a route into motorsport for talented youngsters who might otherwise be held back by the financial demands of the sport.
Based at Silverstone's karting circuit, the initiative will run across four stages, beginning with open-access qualifying sessions in December 2026.
The first stage will see eligible drivers compete in arrive-and-drive sessions between December 6 and 31, with the 80 fastest progressing to a shootout on January 31, 2027.
From there, 25 drivers will be selected for the GR63 Championship, an eight-round series running from March to November 2027. Each round will take place on a different circuit configuration at Silverstone, with all participation costs covered by the academy.
The 25 selected drivers will also receive a full set of academy equipment, including racing overalls, a helmet, gloves and boots.
The programme will culminate in December 2027, when the championship's top five finishers compete in a final race at Silverstone. Drivers will be evaluated on their talent, lap times, fitness, racecraft and media skills, with the overall winner receiving a fully-funded karting season in 2028.
Russell will help mentor and guide participants throughout the programme.
"Karting is where it all started for me, and it taught me everything I've relied on throughout my career," said Russell.
"I know how hard it is for talented young drivers to get that first opportunity, especially when budgets are tight.
"With the GR63 Karting Academy, I want to give something back by finding those hidden talents and giving them the support and platform they need to reach their potential."
The financial accessibility of the programme is a central part of its appeal. While the initial qualifying sessions will cost £25 and entry to the January shootout will cost £75, everything from the championship stage onwards will be fully funded.
The initiative is being supported by Silverstone and the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC), with BRDC president David Coulthard welcoming the opportunity to invest in Britain's motorsport future.
"The GR63 Academy captures that ethos perfectly, and we are delighted to work with George to support the next generation of drivers here at Silverstone," said Coulthard.
How to enter the GR63 Karting Academy
The initial arrive-and-drive qualifying sessions will take place at Silverstone Kart Track between December 6 and 31, 2026, at a cost of £25.
All applicants must be citizens of a Commonwealth country.
Further information and bookings are available through Silverstone's GR63 Academy website.
