Six SA Karters Compete in Global Champions of the Future Academy Program
Six rising talents from South Africa are proudly represented in the Champions of the Future Academy Program (COTFA), an international karting championship launched to elevate grassroots motorsport and uncover future racing stars. Now in its second season, the Academy Program features three classes designed to cater to young drivers across key developmental stages:
Mini-60 (8–12 years) and includes Mini U/10
OK-N Junior (11–14 years)
OK-N Senior (14–17 years)
All drivers compete using identical machinery: Parolin chassis with TM engines for Mini and Kart Republic chassis with IAME engines for OK-N Junior and Senior. This ensures that talent, not budget, takes centre stage. The series follows an “arrive and drive” format, dramatically lowering the barrier to entry for competitive karting.
South African drivers competing are Ronald Venter (Mini-60 U/10), Brodi Cooper Dowling (Mini 60), Emma-Rose Dowling (OK-N Junior), William Marshall, Gianna Pascoal and Anastasia Gerasis, all in OK-N Senior.
The 2025 COTFA season takes place across six race weekends, divided between Europe and the Middle East, offering young drivers world-class experience on renowned circuits:
Portimao (Portugal): 28 February – 2 March
Valencia (Spain): 11 – 13 April
Jesolo (Italy): 4 – 6 July
Pannonia-Ring (Hungary): 19 – 21 September
Lusail (Qatar): 24 – 26 November
Al Forsan (UAE): 1 – 3 December
Each round includes free practice, qualifying, heats, and finals, all broadcast live via Motorsport TV, providing participants with unparalleled exposure.
The 2025 COTFA season is proudly supported by the F1 Academy Discover Your Drive initiative, which aims to boost female inclusion in motorsport. Nine female drivers will receive financial backing and increased media visibility. The top-performing female in the OK-N Senior class will earn a coveted spot in an official F1 Academy Discover Your Drive test.
Following the second round, here are the current championship standings for the respective South African drivers. Total participants are indicated in brackets:
Ronald Venter – 6th (7)
Brodi Cooper Dowling – 23rd (32)
Emma-Rose Dowling – 29th (37)
William Marshall – 16th (36)
Gianna Pascoal – 19th (36)
Anastasia Gerasis – 29th (36)
More than just a championship, the COTFA is redefining the landscape of youth motorsport. Through its focus on equal opportunity, accessibility, and global visibility, it is fast becoming an essential platform for drivers seeking a pathway to professional racing. Entries for the 2025 season remain open, and the year ahead promises another exhilarating chapter of competition and talent development.
For more, please visit www.championskartingacademy.com by tapping on the link.
