Karting is the foundation of motorsports, where the world’s greatest drivers, from Lewis Hamilton to Max Verstappen, honed their skills. But karting isn’t just a stepping stone—it’s an electrifying sport on its own! If you love high-speed racing, intense rivalries, and future motorsport legends in the making, then following the best kart championships is a must.
Let’s dive into the most prestigious karting championships in the world, covering everything from grassroots series to elite international competitions.
1. FIA Karting World Championship
This is the pinnacle of competitive kart racing, governed by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). The championship attracts the best young talents, many of whom move on to Formula racing.
- Categories: OK, OK-Junior, and KZ (shifter karts)
- Famous Circuits: Le Mans (France), Sarno (Italy), and Portimão (Portugal)
- Past Champions: Michael Schumacher, Ayrton Senna, Fernando Alonso
The FIA Karting World Championship is not only a breeding ground for future Formula 1 drivers but also a stage where the world’s most talented young racers battle for glory. With high-performance karts capable of reaching impressive speeds, the competition is fierce, demanding exceptional skill, strategy, and physical endurance. The championship follows strict regulations set by the FIA, ensuring a level playing field while promoting driver development at the highest level.
Each year, the championship attracts top-tier teams and manufacturers, making it a highly professional and well-supported series. Brands like Tony Kart, CRG, and Birel ART play a crucial role in developing cutting-edge karting technology, which helps shape the future of motorsport. With a combination of precision engineering and raw driver talent, the FIA Karting World Championship serves as an ideal stepping stone for those aiming to make it to single-seater racing.
Beyond the racing action, the championship also fosters a highly competitive yet educational environment. Young drivers gain invaluable experience in racecraft, tire management, and adapting to different track conditions—skills that are essential as they progress through the motorsport ranks. The intense nature of the series, combined with the presence of scouts from major racing teams, makes it a key event for any aspiring professional racer.
If you want to see future F1 stars in action, this is the championship to watch!
2. Superkarts! USA (SKUSA) Pro Tour
SKUSA is America’s premier karting series, known for its fast-paced racing and high competition levels.
- Biggest Event: SKUSA SuperNationals in Las Vegas
- Key Classes: KA100, X30, and KZ shifter karts
- Why Follow It?: It’s where many U.S. drivers get their start before heading to international racing.
The SKUSA Pro Tour has gained a reputation for its highly competitive fields and professional-level organization, attracting both rising stars and seasoned karting veterans. With races held at top circuits across the United States, the series provides a crucial stepping stone for young American drivers looking to break into the global motorsport scene. The highlight of the season, the SKUSA SuperNationals in Las Vegas, is one of the most prestigious karting events in the world, drawing international talent and offering a high-stakes atmosphere that mirrors professional motorsport.
3. Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals
The Rotax Max Challenge is a global championship where the best Rotax engine kart racers battle it out.
- International Representation: Drivers from over 60 countries
- Equal Equipment: All karts use identical Rotax engines, making it about skill, not money
- Why It’s Unique: It’s one of the fairest competitions in karting, giving all drivers an equal chance to win.
The Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals is often referred to as the “Olympics of Karting” due to its truly international nature and emphasis on driver talent. Since all competitors use identical chassis and engines provided by the organizers, the playing field is leveled, ensuring that success comes down to pure driving ability and racecraft rather than budget or team resources. This unique format has made the championship a breeding ground for emerging talent, with many past participants advancing to professional racing careers.
4. WSK Euro Series
If you want to watch the top European talents, WSK is where the best battle it out.
- Tracks: Adria, Lonato, and Franciacorta
- Why Follow It?: Many FIA Karting World Championship winners compete here before moving to single-seaters.
The WSK Euro Series is known for its ultra-competitive grid, featuring young drivers who are often backed by major karting teams and manufacturers. With races held at some of Europe’s most iconic karting circuits, the series serves as a crucial training ground for future motorsport stars. Many of today’s Formula 1 drivers, including Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen, honed their skills in WSK events, making it one of the most exciting championships to follow for those looking to spot the next big name in racing.
5. CIK-FIA European Karting Championship
This is the stepping stone to the FIA World Championship and a proving ground for future stars.
- Top Categories: KZ, OK, OK-Junior
- Why Follow It?: A must-watch if you want to see the next big names in motorsports.
The CIK-FIA European Karting Championship is widely regarded as one of the most intense and prestigious series in the sport, attracting the best young drivers from around the world. Competing across multiple European circuits, racers must master diverse track conditions and high-pressure race formats, preparing them for the demands of higher-level single-seater racing. With many past champions progressing to Formula 1 and other elite racing categories, this championship is a key battleground where future motorsport legends are forged.
6. British Kart Championships
The UK has a rich karting culture, and this championship is one of the toughest in the world.
- Notable Alumni: Jenson Button, Lando Norris, George Russell
- Why It Matters: It’s a breeding ground for F1 talent.
7. IAME International Final
This event brings together the best IAME kart racers from around the world.
- Notable Categories: X30 Senior, X30 Junior
- Why It’s Important: A crucial championship for young drivers aiming for professional motorsports.
8. Brazilian Karting Championship
Brazil has produced some of the best racing drivers ever, and its karting scene is legendary.
- Past Champions: Ayrton Senna, Felipe Massa
- Why Follow It?: You never know when the next Brazilian superstar will emerge!
Karting is where legends are made, and these championships are the best way to witness future racing stars before they make it big. Whether you’re a casual fan or a motorsport enthusiast, following these world-class karting events is both thrilling and insightful.