Russell launches GR63 Academy to back young karting talent

George Russell has announced the GR63 Academy, a karting development programme aimed at identifying young drivers who might otherwise struggle to afford a career in motorsport. The Mercedes driver said he wanted to give something back to the sport that shaped his career, which began in karting before he reached Formula 1.

The academy will officially launch in 2027, with selection events beginning at Silverstone in December. Open-access Arrive & Drive qualifying sessions are open to children aged eight or nine, at a cost of £25 per session. The 80 fastest will progress to a shoot-out at the end of January, where 25 drivers will be chosen for the inaugural season.

Those selected will race in the GR63 Championship, an eight-round, fully funded karting series at Kart Silverstone, using Russell's signature blue racing equipment. Russell will work with Silverstone and the British Racing Drivers' Club to deliver the project.