The Champions of the Future Academy Program launches its first dedicated UK series at Kart Silverstone from 26 to 29 March. For the first time, Mini 60 and OK-N will headline a standalone national series.
Set alongside Silverstone Circuit, the birthplace of Formula 1, the new 1,377-metre track features 18 corners and has been designed with input from former F1 drivers David Coulthard and Anthony Davidson, creating what promises to be a challenge.
This week marks the first of four rounds, with eight finals set to shape the series. It also represents the first major competitive event at the Kart Silverstone facility.
Going into the unknown
The introduction of OK-N and Mini 60 at national level brings an amount of uncertainty. With limited prior competition in the UK, both engine manufacturers (IAME and TM), Parolin and Kart Republic, as well as drivers and mechanics, enter untested ground.
Drivers also face a steep learning curve. With no existing race footage or circuit experience from coaches, early sessions will be key in establishing braking reference points, understanding grip levels, and refining racing lines.
Overtaking hotspots of the circuit remain unclear at this point. Identifying passing opportunities is expected to be a focus throughout testing and into the opening laps of racing on Saturday.
The extension of F1 Academy Discover Your Drive
As with every year of the Champions of the Future Academy Program, F1 Academy will have a presence, continuing its mission to support and champion young female drivers as they pursue their motorsport careers.
For the British edition of COTFA, the eight selected drivers are Khloe McGill, Arshi Gupta, Andie Stewart, Ava Lawrence, Sukhmani Khera, Lizzy Mentier, Eva Morris, and Emma Rose Dowling. McGill, Stewart, Lawrence, and Dowling have all previously experienced the series and will be eager to build on that foundation.
Names in the field
With a new circuit and format, forecasting early frontrunners remains difficult. However, several drivers with strong performances in the international COTFA series are expected to be competitive.
In Mini 60, Benjamin Kakajkovic and Ilyas Sami are among those to watch. In Junior, Andie Stewart is a notable contender, while Emma Rose Dowling will be one to follow in Senior.
The entry list features a strong home-grown presence, many of whom share an extended racing history. Harrison Whitticombe brings significant OK-N experience. Sukhmani Khera, supported by Alpine F1 Academy, and Alfie Davidson are also notable names in the field, along with Ava Lawrence, who moves to OK-N Junior for 2026 with support from Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team.
British unpredictability
Any motorsport fan who has watched Formula 1 at Silverstone will know one thing, British weather is impossible to predict. While rain in March may seem likely, recent warm spells prove that anything is possible.
Rain has been known to arrive even in July at The Grand Prix, so it would come as no surprise if changing conditions play a role at some point during the race weekend.
A turning point in British karting is approaching. Tune in to our live broadcast this Saturday and Sunday to follow every battle on track. Wherever you are, watch it live and be part of this new era.