Emma-Rose Dowling Joins Global Elite at FIA Karting Academy Trophy
South African karting talent Emma-Rose Dowling is set to take a significant step in her motorsport journey as she lines up for the opening round of the 2025 FIA Karting Academy Trophy-Junior, taking place at the Kartodromo Internacional Lucas Guerrero in Valencia, Spain.
The FIA Karting Academy Trophy is regarded as a proving ground for the next generation of international motorsport stars. Former participants include Formula 1 standouts such as Charles Leclerc, George Russell, and Esteban Ocon. This unique competition gathers 52 of the best young drivers aged 12 to 14 from over 50 nations and five continents. All race with identical Exprit chassis and Vortex engines supplied by OTK Kart Group. To ensure a level playing field, engines are swapped between competitors during the event, making driver skill and adaptability paramount.
Emma-Rose, competing under the banner of the FIA Women in Motorsport (WiM) Commission, will represent South Africa as one of only two WiM-supported female drivers this season. Her selection highlights her impressive performances in the South African Rotax and ROK Series and her current campaign in the Junior MAX Class with the Toyota Gazoo Racing Junior Academy.
Internationally, Emma has gained valuable experience through her recent participation in the Champions of the Future Academy Program, where she competed in the highly competitive OK-N Junior class. This exposure has prepared her for the challenges of international competition, offering a taste of racing against Europe's elite young talents.
The Academy Trophy format is designed to uncover and develop raw talent. It often features drivers with limited international experience. Success hinges on quickly adapting to new circuits, equipment, and high-pressure environments.
The event kicks off on Thursday with four crucial test sessions, giving drivers valuable track time to get acquainted with the technical Spanish circuit. Friday ramps the intensity with three official practice sessions leading into qualifying practice in the afternoon. We will see the first two qualifying heats on Saturday, with the third and final heat on Sunday morning. The weekend culminates in an 18-lap final, where Emma-Rose will aim to showcase her competitive spirit on the international stage.
Fans can follow Emma-Rose's progress live via the official FIA Karting website here: https://www.fiakarting.com/live-timing
