‘Karting is where it all started for me’ – Russell launches new academy to develop young racers

George Russell has revealed the creation of his own karting academy, which will seek to find “hidden stars” and provide support to help them progress in motorsport when it officially launches in 2027.

The Mercedes driver teased the announcement earlier this week as he praised karting for teaching him “the fundamentals of racing” and making him the competitor he is now, adding his ambition to “give back to a sport that gave me so much”.

The GR63 Academy will begin with open-access qualifiers at Silverstone in December, with 80 young drivers progressing to a shoot-out before 25 are selected for the 2027 championship.

“So proud to introduce you all to the GR63 Academy,” Russell shared on social media. “Karting is where it all started for me and has played a crucial role in my career. I also know how hard it is for talented young drivers to get that first opportunity, especially when budgets are tight.

“With the GR63 Academy, I want to give something back to my sport by finding those hidden stars and giving them the support and guidance they need to reach their potential.

“Following the first two rounds at Silverstone, I’ll identify 25 kids to take part in the GR63 Academy in 2027. Thank you to Silverstone and the BRDC for helping make this happen.”

The academy's official website outlines the selection process, beginning with Arrive & Drive Qualifiers in December. Children aged eight or nine can participate for £25 per qualifying session.

The 80 fastest drivers will advance to a shoot-out at the end of January, with 25 selected to compete in the GR63 Championship – a fully funded, eight-round series held across different circuit configurations at Kart Silverstone.

Equipped with a full set of Russell’s signature vibrant blue kit, they will battle to finish in the top five, which will earn them a spot in the final shoot-out. There, the remaining youngsters will be assessed on “talent, lap times, fitness, race craft and media skills”, with the winner receiving a fully-funded kart season in 2028.

Russell believes the initiative could help uncover F1's next generation of talent by providing a more accessible route into competitive karting.

David Coulthard, President of the British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC), said: “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."