New Classes and Full Grids: DKM Kicks Off Season in Mülsen
The German Kart Championship (DKM) kicks off its 2026 season this coming weekend at Arena E in Mülsen. With a new class structure, a highly international field, and a total of 158 drivers, the season opener promises top-level racing.
The 1,315-meter circuit is one of the most modern kart tracks in Germany and is known for its long straights, which regularly produce thrilling slipstream battles and numerous overtaking maneuvers. Motorsport fans can follow all the action live via the ADAC Motorsport YouTube channel — on Saturday from 11:55 a.m. and Sunday from 9:10 a.m..
Proven Format and New Class Structure
The race weekend follows a proven format: after free practice, qualifying sessions and heats will take place on Saturday, followed by super heats and finals on Sunday.
For the first time, the DKM will compete with its new class structure, consisting of Mini, OK-N Junior, OK-N, KZ2, and KZ2 Cup. The newly introduced OK-N categories have generated strong interest, with 32 drivers entered in OK-N Junior and 27 drivers in OK-N. Overall, the grid is highly international, with competitors from 18 nations, ensuring a very high sporting level.
KZ2 Cup Once Again the Largest Class
With 51 entries, the KZ2 Cup is once again the largest category. The title in this class is awarded as part of the German Shifter Kart Cup. The top five drivers of a season are no longer eligible to compete in the following year, encouraging progression into the OK-N or KZ2 categories.
This step has been taken by reigning champion Jayden Thien (CS Competition). The Dutch driver now faces strong competition in the DKM, including 2024 champion Markus Kajak (Formula K SRP Factory Team). The premier KZ2 class itself features 21 drivers.
Focus on Youth Development in the Mini Class
The program is rounded out by the Mini class, which remains a key focus area. Reigning champion Devin Titz has been selected for the Mercedes-AMG F1 Junior Team. This season again offers the opportunity for the best German Mini driver to receive an invitation to a selection program with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team at the end of the year. A total of 27 young drivers will take to the track at the season opener.
Strong Partner Presence in the Paddock
Beyond the on-track action, DKM partners are also adding highlights in the paddock. Motorsport apparel brand 32Five brings back the popular Pole Position Award: the fastest drivers in qualifying will be honored on Saturday in all five classes with handcrafted, limited-edition trophies.
Champions in all categories can also look forward to a custom helmet design. Helmade once again supports the championship, awarding each class champion a €1,250 voucher at the end of the season.
DKM Race Calendar 2026
May 1–3, 2026: Motorsport Arena Mülsen
May 29–31, 2026: Kartarena Cheb (CZE)
July 17–19, 2026: Zimmermann Karting Ampfing
August 14–16, 2026: Erftlandring Kerpen
September 25–27, 2026: ProKart Raceland Wackersdorf