F1: George Russell launches the GR63 Karting Academy at Silverstone

George Russell is moving from the track to talent spotting. The Formula 1 driver has launched the GR63 Karting Academy, a programme based at Silverstone that aims to give young drivers a first funded route into racing. It is open to boys and girls aged 8 and 9, and 25 of them will contest a fully funded championship in 2027.

A three-stage selection

• Open qualifiers: arrive-and-drive sessions run at the Silverstone kart track from 6 to 31 December, with a £25 entry fee.
• Shootout: the 80 fastest meet at a shootout on 31 January 2027, costing £75.
• Championship: after the shootout, 25 drivers are selected for an eight-round championship, from March to November 2027, on different circuit configurations at Silverstone.

The academy covers participation costs and provides racing overalls, a helmet, gloves and boots.

The final and the prize

In December 2027, the top five in the championship face off in a final at Silverstone. Drivers are judged on talent, lap times, fitness, racecraft and media skills. The winner receives a fully funded karting season in 2028.

Why Russell is getting involved

Russell wants to give something back to the sport and help talented youngsters who struggle to get a first chance because of tight budgets. He will mentor the participants. Silverstone and the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC) back the launch; BRDC president David Coulthard sees the project as fitting the club's aim of reinvesting in the sport and developing home-grown talent.

Similar initiatives

The project is not isolated. The LN4 Legacy Programme, launched in September by Lando Norris, has a similar purpose. The FAT Karting League, co-led by former Ferrari engineer Rob Smedley, offers a pathway that starts with electric karts and leads to a funded single-seater drive.

Key takeaways

• Target group: boys and girls aged 8 and 9.
• 25 fully funded places in the 2027 championship.
• Entries and bookings through Silverstone's GR63 Academy website.