Russell, Gasly and Bearman recall early karting days as FIA marks 70 years

George Russell, Pierre Gasly and Ollie Bearman have looked back on the childhood experiences that shaped their racing careers, ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix. Speaking as the FIA prepares to celebrate 70 years of karting, the three drivers described the excitement, freedom and friendships of their early days in the sport.

Gasly called karting one of the best periods of his life, when the focus was simply on improving and chasing the dream of Formula 1. He noted that many of the drivers he raced as a youngster are now his rivals on the grid, and recalled learning to race on slick tyres in the wet in Normandy.

The Frenchman also described the pressure of European and World Cup events, where a strong result could decide whether a young driver had the chance to continue karting for another season.