Russell launches GR63 Academy to unearth future racing stars

George Russell is putting something back into the sport that helped shape his career, launching his own karting academy in partnership with Silverstone to give aspiring young racers a chance to shine, regardless of their financial circumstances.

The Mercedes driver officially unveiled the GR63 Karting Academy on Thursday, with the initiative aimed at boys and girls aged eight to nine. Its mission is straightforward: identify promising youngsters who might otherwise struggle to enter motorsport and provide them with the support needed to develop their talent.

Built around a four-stage selection and development programme, the academy will begin in December with an open-access format at Silverstone, welcoming all eligible drivers for an initial arrive-and-drive session.

From there, 80 candidates will be selected to advance.

Four steps towards a racing career

Those youngsters will face the GR63 Shootout on January 31, with just 25 securing a place in an eight-round championship scheduled to run at Silverstone between March and November 2027.

Importantly, the championship will be fully funded for every selected participant, removing a significant obstacle for families looking to pursue a future in racing.

The five best performers will then progress to the academy's final stage in December 2027. The overall winner will receive a fully funded karting campaign for 2028, offering a valuable platform to take their ambitions further.

For Russell, who won national and international karting titles before progressing into single-seaters and ultimately Formula 1, the project has a personal significance.

“Karting is where it all started for me,” said Russell.

“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.

“I'm really grateful to Silverstone and the British Racing Drivers’ Club for helping make this happen."

Breaking down the financial barriers

Cost is a central consideration behind the initiative. Motorsport's financial demands can shut out gifted youngsters before they have the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities, and Russell wants the academy to reach those who “may not have the budget required to progress through the sport”.

Entry to the opening stage costs £25, rising to £75 for the GR63 Shootout. From the 25-driver championship onwards, all costs will be covered.

• Read also: Nine-year-old Jack Wolff claims first karting championship

The British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC), which owns Silverstone, is equally enthusiastic about supporting the project. Its president, former F1 driver David Coulthard, welcomed the partnership.

“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.

“That commitment has played a big part in Britain’s long record of success in motorsport, and it is a great source of pride for the Club and its Members.

“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."

Applicants must be citizens of a Commonwealth country. Registration for the opening stage is available through Silverstone's website.

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