Russell launches GR63 Karting Academy at Silverstone to unearth budget-constrained talent

George Russell launched his GR63 Karting Academy at Silverstone on Thursday, partnering with the British Racing Drivers’ Club to create a low-cost, structured pathway into motorsport for children aged eight and nine.

The Mercedes driver, an eight-time Formula 1 grand prix winner, designed the programme specifically for young drivers who lack the financial backing to progress through the sport. Entry to the opening stage costs £25, rising to £75 for the second-round shootout, after which the entire programme is fully funded.

The academy runs across four stages. Stage one is an open-access arrive-and-drive session at Silverstone’s kart track, from which 80 drivers will be selected. Those 80 will then compete in the GR63 Shootout on 31 January to determine 25 places in an eight-round championship running at Silverstone from March to November 2027. The top five finishers from that championship advance to a final shootout in December 2027, with the winner receiving a fully-funded karting campaign in 2028.

“Karting is where it all started for me,” said Russell, who won titles at national and international level before moving into single-seater racing. “It taught me everything I’ve relied on throughout my career. 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.”

BRDC president David Coulthard welcomed the initiative, framing it as consistent with the club’s long-standing mission. “As owners of Silverstone and guardians of British motorsport, the BRDC has always been committed to reinvesting in the sport and nurturing home-grown talent,” he said. “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.”

All participants must hold citizenship of a Commonwealth country. The programme begins in December with the first open-access stage at Silverstone.