No Fear, No Limits: Chloe Destroys Class F Field at Zwartkops
Rising star Chloe Stuart delivered a flawless performance in Round 4 of the BMW ///M Performance Parts Race Series this past weekend, dominating both heats at Zwartkops Raceway as part of the Regional Extreme Festival presented by Coca-Cola.
Competing in Class F under the guidance of the Pablo Clark Racing Motorsport Development Program, Chloe showcased her rapid development in only her second outing since joining the program. The Johannesburg teenager, supported by NGK, Itoo, EasyEquities, Liqui Moly and AutoZone, qualified her BMW E46 second in class and then delivered two emphatic victories on race day.
In Race 1, Chloe set the pace, carving out an astonishing winning margin of nearly 50 seconds over the 10-lap contest. Her fastest lap, a blistering 1:14.111, stood as the quickest in her class and underscored her pace and precision around the tight 2.4km Pretoria circuit.
Race 2 brought more of the same, with Chloe storming again to the front. She led confidently throughout the 12-lap race and clocked another fastest lap, narrowly shy of her earlier benchmark, to secure her second win.
Fearless, fiercely competitive, and already gaining a reputation as an aggressive but responsible racer, Chloe quickly becomes a name to watch in the BMW paddock. Her confidence behind the wheel and readiness to challenge her more experienced, often male, rivals are winning her admiration and respect from teams, fans, and competitors. As an added reward, Chloe was named the driver of the day.
After the double victory, Chloe was quick to share her appreciation: “I’m so grateful to the BMW series, my team, and especially the Pablo Clark Racing Motorsport Development Program for believing in me and giving me this incredible opportunity. The car was amazing, and I’m learning more every time I hit the track. Zwartkops was a big step forward, I can’t wait for the next one! To be named the driver of the day is incredible and testament to the hard work we as a team have put in.”
With her performance at Zwartkops, Chloe Stuart has firmly established herself as one of the most exciting young prospects in the series and a powerful symbol of the new wave of talent coming through the Pablo Clark Racing program under BMW South Africa’s transformation initiative.
From Setbacks to Standout: Jack Moore Charges Into FIA Final
Reigning South African OK-Junior champion Jack Moore flew the flag for Mzansi with pride at the opening round of the FIA Karting Academy Trophy in Spain this past weekend. Representing South Africa among 52 of the world’s top young drivers aged 12–14, the Eastern Cape native delivered a gritty, determined performance that ultimately saw him qualify for the coveted Final, despite a challenging run of technical setbacks.
The weekend began with frustration, as persistent engine issues throughout the practice sessions limited Jack’s ability to fine-tune his kart on the demanding Lucas Guerrero International Kart Circuit, Valencia. An initial engine swap made only marginal improvements and did not allow the multiple karting champion to show his true pace.
However, another change before the first qualifying heat unlocked the speed Jack and his team knew was there. With renewed performance, he charged through the field to set the second-fastest lap time in one of the heats. Unfortunately, another engine swap before the remaining qualifying heats would hamper further progress, forcing Jack to dig deep just to keep climbing through the pack.
Despite the odds, Jack achieved the first major goal of the weekend: qualifying for the final, lining up 15th on the grid. Jack got off to a flying start in the final, gaining four positions in the opening laps. However, disaster struck again as a misfire developed in his engine. For the remaining 15 laps, Jack was forced to defend furiously, doing everything in his power to stay in contention. He crossed the finish line in a hard-fought 14th place, but a post-race five-second penalty saw him classified 19th overall.
Still, making the final and finishing in the top half of such an elite international field was no small feat, as he commented after the final, “It was a real honour to represent South Africa on such a big stage. Making the final and running in the top half of such a competitive field, especially with our kind of misfortune, was a massive achievement. I’m proud of the performance we put together. We showed we had a consistent top 5 pace every time the kart was running clean. A huge thanks to Neil, Ian, and the Beyond Racing Team for their professionalism and non-stop effort to keep us moving forward. I’ve learnt a lot and I’m already looking forward to the next round in Germany.”
With Jack showing immense resolve and flashes of world-class pace, the stage is set for an exciting continuation of his FIA Karting Academy campaign.
Odendaal Eyes Redemption at Zwartkops After VKC Setback
After a challenging second round, three-time national champion Caleb Odendaal is looking to bounce back with a significant result this weekend as the 2025 Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championship heads to Zwartkops Kart Raceway for Round 3.
The East London native started his Junior MAX campaign dominantly, securing two victories and the overall win at the opening round at Formula-K Raceway. But Round 2 at Vereeniging proved far less straightforward. Despite showing top-three pace throughout the weekend, Caleb's race day was undone by an exclusion in Heat 1, leaving him without points for that heat and a less-than-desired starting position for the remaining heats. He salvaged the remainder of the day with two substantial recoveries in Heats 2 and 3, but the damage to his points haul was done.
That result has left Caleb sitting on 70 points, placing him 12th overall after two rounds in a stacked Junior MAX field. Still, with four rounds remaining, the Legend Motors and Kart Republic Africa-backed driver has a mountain to climb.
"VKC was one of those weekends where things didn't go our way," Caleb reflected. "But we've moved on, and Zwartkops is a circuit I enjoy. It's technical, it rewards precision, and I'm ready to go full throttle to make up ground. While my chance of claiming the regional title is practically over, I can still show my competition why I'm a three-time national champion!"
Known for its flowing layout and tight overtaking zones, Zwartkops promises high-pressure racing and little margin for error. With the championship frontrunners potentially locked in a battle, Caleb will need a clean and competitive weekend to reignite his championship campaign.
Practice kicks off on Friday ahead of Saturday's Qualifying and three heats. For Caleb, this round represents more than just a points opportunity; it's a chance to reset his season trajectory and reaffirm his status as one of South Africa's brightest junior talents.
With his trademark composure and relentless drive, expect Odendaal to be a key contender as the action heats up at Zwartkops.
TGRJA Gears Up for High-Stakes Showdown in Gauteng
The Toyota Gazoo Racing Junior Academy (TGRJA) returns to familiar ground this weekend as Round 3 of the 2025 MSA Northern Regions Rotax Kart Championships heads to the technical and fast-paced Zwartkops Kart Raceway. With the season nearing its midpoint, the Academy's young drivers will be eager to translate the promise and performance of earlier rounds into championship-defining results.
Senior MAX – Swartz Eyes Consistency, Lenaerts Looks to Strike Back
Championship leader Kent Swartz has been a force in Senior MAX, stringing together strong results, including three heat victories from six races. Currently topping the regional points table, Swartz will look to extend his advantage at a circuit where he's historically been strong. His mix of aggression and control has set the tone for TGRJA's 2025 campaign.
Teammate Georgia Lenaerts, who lies seventh in the standings, has shown serious pace but has yet to string together a clean weekend. With some luck on her side, the tenacious racer could be a podium spoiler at Zwartkops.
Junior MAX – Shisinwana Charges Toward the Front, Dowling Returns
After claiming his second season podium at the previous round, Tshepang Shisinwana sits fourth overall in the Junior MAX championship. His speed is unquestionable, and the reigning national Mini MAX champion will be determined to break into the top three this weekend.
Fresh from her stint in Spain as part of the FIA Karting Academy Trophy, Emma-Rose Dowling will look to climb up the points ranking. Now 11th in the standings, Dowling's pace suggests a surge up the leaderboard is on the cards if she avoids misfortune.
Mini MAX – Namibian Twins Continue to Learn and Impress
Since joining the Academy in 2025, the Kaiyamo twins, Nande and Mandume, have steadily built experience and confidence. Nande currently sits ninth in the Mini MAX standings with 81 points, while Mandume is 12th with 74. Both Namibian stars have delivered encouraging performances, with Nande especially proving consistent in the opening heats. Zwartkops will offer them another opportunity to close the gap to the frontrunners and continue their development in the ultra-competitive Mini MAX ranks.
Team Principal Leeroy Poulter's Outlook
"We're reaching a crucial point in the championship," said TGRJA Team Principal Leeroy Poulter. "Zwartkops is a circuit that rewards rhythm and commitment. Kent has a chance to extend his lead, while Georgia, Tshepang, and Emma-Rose are all in striking distance of big results. The twins continue to improve, and that's what our programme is about, building champions over time."
With tight battles expected in every class, TGRJA's drivers will aim to assert themselves ahead of the season's final stretch. The action begins with practice on Friday, followed by Qualifying and three heats on Saturday.
Clean Sweeps & Comebacks! Red Star Delivers ROK Drama
South Africa's premier regional ROK karting competition, the Northern Regions ROK Kart Championship, returned to the vibrant Red Star Raceway for Round 3 of the 2025 campaign. Under sunny skies and with a promising forecast, competitors across all five categories engaged in exhilarating racing action, highlighting the remarkable talent that fuels this dynamic sport.
OK-N – Lennon Untouchable in Red Star Masterclass
Ethan Lennon continued his perfect form in OK-N, storming to pole and winning all three races to collect the maximum 105 points. Behind him, Gianna Pascoal displayed remarkable consistency to secure three second-place finishes and second overall. William Marshal edged out Van der Wateren and Bostander in a tight scrap for third.
Top 5 Overall:
1. Ethan Lennon – 105 pts
2. Gianna Pascoal – 96 pts
3. William Marshal – 89 pts
4. Emile Van der Wateren – 86 pts
5. Ethan Bostander – 84 pts
Best Lap: Ethan Lennon – 52.475s (Heat 3)
OK-J – Klaasen Claims the Overall, Nagura Wins Heat 3
In one of the tightest battles of the weekend, Jordan Klaasen's consistency earned him a maiden heat victory and the overall win with 97 points. Aashay Nagura recovered from a penalty in Heat 1 to win the final heat and claim second overall. Reagile Mailula bagged a Heat 2 victory, but a DNF in the opener cost him overall honours.
Top 5 Overall:
1. Jordan Klaasen – 97 pts
2. Aashay Nagura – 95 pts
3. Reagile Mailula – 91 pts
4. Aleksandar Praizovic – 89 pts
5. Zuan Breytenbach – 87 pts
Pole Position: Aleksandar Praizovic
Best Lap: Aashay Nagura – 53.756s (Heat 3)
Mini ROK – Cornofsky Sweeps the Weekend
Kayde Cornofsky continued his dominant run in the Mini ROK category with a perfect hat-trick of victories. The Xtreme Racing driver also grabbed pole position in qualifying. Despite close pressure from Logan Billau and Santi Frade, Cornofsky kept his composure in all three heats to claim maximum points. Frade's consistency (2nd in Heat 2, 3rd in Heat 3) secured him second overall ahead of Billau.
Top 5 Overall:
1. Kayde Cornofsky – 105 pts
2. Santi Frade – 91 pts
3. Logan Billau – 90 pts
4. Kiyaan Reddi – 84 pts
5. Rafael De Sousa – 84 pts
Best Lap: Kayde Cornofsky – 58.733s (Heat 3)
Mini ROK U10 – Van Staden Fights Back for Victory
Riley van Staden set the tone early by claiming pole and showing standout pace all weekend. A first-lap incident in Heat 1 saw him fall to the back of the field, but the young charger fought back in style, bouncing back with dominant wins in Heats 2 and 3 to take the overall victory in Mini ROK U10 with 97 points. Alanzo Dias showed brilliant pace with a Heat 1 victory and consistent top-three finishes to place second overall. Lwashu Mathebula's podiums in all three races secured third.
Top 5 Overall:
1. Riley van Staden – 97 pts
2. Alanzo Dias – 95 pts
3. Lwashu Mathebula – 90 pts
4. Egor Grishin – 86 pts
5. Noah Cronje – 84 pts
Best Lap: Noah Cronje – 58.436s (Heat 3)
Cadet – Caleb Rogers Untouchable
It was a masterclass from Caleb Rogers, who remained unbeaten across all three Cadet heats. Starting from pole with a commanding 36.424s qualifying lap, the Rogers Racing youngster was in a class of his own, extending his championship lead. Ethan Zitha edged out Grayson Venter for second overall in a close points battle.
Top 5 Overall:
1. Caleb Rogers – 105 pts
2. Ethan Zitha – 94 pts
3. Grayson Venter – 92 pts
4. Christopher Grimmick – 87 pts
Best Lap: Caleb Rogers – 36.218s (Heat 1)
ROK Cup Academy – Nurturing the Next Generation
Round 3 also marked a significant milestone for South African karting with the continued rollout of the ROK Cup Academy class—an exciting initiative aimed at developing grassroots talent. Designed as an entry-level platform for newcomers, the Academy saw seven drivers take to the grid. Lulama Ngobeni was the standout, going unbeaten across all three heats to secure the overall win with a perfect 105-point haul. Siyabonga Cele and Ditebogo Tlhapi completed the podium with strong performances and marked progress. The Academy is already proving to be a vital step in cultivating the stars of tomorrow.
Top 5 Overall:
1. Lulama Ngobeni – 105 pts
2. Siyabonga Cele – 94 pts
3. Ditebogo Tlhapi – 89 pts
4. Phineas Khoza – 86 pts
5. Christopher Grimmick – 87 pts
Pole Position: Lulama Ngobeni – 55.067s
Best Lap: Lulama Ngobeni – 54.848s (Heat 3)
The weekend reinforced the depth of talent in South African karting, with exciting battles and strategic racing across all categories. This made for an exciting event that kept fans eagerly anticipating the next round of the championship, set for 23 August at Red Star Raceway.
Cornofsky Completes Dominant Sweep at Red Star
Kayde Cornofsky delivered a flawless performance at Round 3 of the 2025 Northern Regions ROK Karting Championship, taking a clean sweep of all three races to extend his lead in the Mini ROK standings. The Xtreme Racing Team star was in imperious form at Red Star Raceway, converting pole position into three consecutive wins and the fastest lap in each heat to stamp his authority on the title fight.
Following a promising start to the season with three victories in the opening two rounds, Kayde arrived at Red Star holding a narrow three-point lead in the championship. Determined to consolidate his advantage, he wasted no time asserting his pace. Cornofsky blitzed qualifying with a session-best 58.632-second lap, more than a tenth quicker than his closest rival.
Heat 1 saw the Johannesburg youngster take command from lights out. Leading all 10 laps, he fended off an early challenge from Logan Billau and Santi Frade before pulling clear to take victory by just over three seconds. His best lap of 58.839 seconds was unmatched, setting the tone for the rest of the day.
In Heat 2, Kayde again led from pole, though this time faced intense pressure from Santi, who finished just 0.166 seconds behind after a thrilling last-lap charge. Kayde maintained composure under fire and clocked a 58.840-second lap en route to his second win of the day.
The final heat was his most dominant. With championship rivals Logan and Santi giving chase, Kayde ran faultlessly to build a gap of over four seconds by the chequered flag. He also posted the fastest lap of the event, a blistering 58.733, which sealed a weekend Grand Slam: pole, three wins, three fastest laps, and the maximum 105 points.
Cornofsky extends his lead in the championship at the halfway mark. His results underscore not only his pace but his maturity in race management and consistency across varied conditions.
“This was the kind of weekend we dream about,” said Kayde. “Everything clicked with the kart, and I could push hard when I needed to. Massive thanks to my team and family, and to all my sponsors for their support, this win is for them. With the championship so close, we’ll keep our heads down and keep fighting.”
Kayde races under the expert guidance of Leeroy Poulter and the Xtreme Racing Team. He continues to be proudly supported by Allegiance Properties, Canario Cornofsky Attorneys, Calisto’s Portuguese Restaurant, Smith Garage, the 357, and AMW.
With the first half of the championship now complete, Kayde will look to carry this momentum into the last three rounds, where every point will be crucial in the race for the 2025 Mini ROK title. Kayde and his team now focus all their attention on the upcoming third round of the national competition set for a return to the Celso Scribante Race Track in Gqeberha.
Moore on a Mission: SA's OK-Junior Star Heads to FIA Karting Academy in Spain
Reigning South African OK-Junior champion Jack Moore is set to take on some of the world's best young talents this weekend as he lines up for Round 1 of the FIA Karting Academy Trophy in Valencia, Spain.
The Xtreme Racing Team driver will be one of 52 competitors aged 12-14 years representing their nations in this prestigious international series. With a proven track record on local soil, numerous national titles, and valuable international experience, including participation in the FIA Motorsport Games in Spain in 2024, Jack will look to make his mark on the global stage again.
"I'm looking forward to racing in Spain again," commented Jack. "Competing against the top drivers in the world is a challenge I welcome as it pushes me to improve and be the best. I know it won't be easy, but I'm ready to give it everything and represent South Africa the best I can."
The weekend kicks off on Thursday with four critical test sessions at the Kartódromo Internacional Lucas Guerrero, allowing drivers to familiarise themselves with the technical Spanish circuit. Friday, the tempo will rise, with three official practice sessions before the all-important qualifying practice in the afternoon.
Saturday and Sunday will feature the event's competitive heats, with two qualifying heats on Saturday and the third and final heat on Sunday morning. The weekend's culmination will be the highly anticipated 18-lap final, where Jack will aim to showcase his pace, racecraft, and determination against the best junior drivers in the world.
Fans can follow Jack's progress live throughout the weekend via the official FIA Karting live timing: https://www.fiakarting.com/live-timing
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
South Africa’s Young Guns Gear Up for FIA Karting Academy Showdown
Photo: FIA Karting Academy Trophy
This weekend, the global karting spotlight turns to Spain’s Kartódromo Internacional Lucas Guerrero as the opening round of the FIA Karting Academy Trophy – Junior gets underway. Flying the South African flag are two bright young talents: Jack Moore and Emma-Rose Dowling, both determined to make their mark on the international stage.
The FIA Karting Academy Trophy represents a rare and valuable opportunity for emerging drivers aged 12 to 14 to compete on a level playing field. With all 52 competitors using identical Exprit chassis, Vortex engines, and LeCont tyres, the series focuses purely on driver talent. National federations select their representatives, making every entry a prestigious nod to a driver’s potential. For South Africa, Moore and Dowling’s participation underscores the country's growing prominence in global karting circles.
For Jack Moore, a reigning National OK-Junior Champion, the Academy Trophy offers a platform to showcase his racecraft against some of the best young drivers from 50 different countries. His sharp pace and tactical racing have already made waves at home, and now, he’s ready to prove himself on the world stage.
Joining him is Emma-Rose Dowling, a standout in the Junior MAX category for the Toyota Gazoo Racing Junior Academy and a nominee of the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission. With a string of national victories and podiums to her name, Dowling is also competing in the Champions of the Future Academy Program this season, further honing her international experience. Her participation reflects not only her personal ambitions but also the broader push to inspire and empower young female drivers in motorsport.
International exposure is crucial in developing well-rounded racing talent. Events like the FIA Karting Academy Trophy provide South African drivers with invaluable experience, teaching them to adapt to new circuits, unfamiliar competitors, and intense pressure. Success here can be a significant stepping stone towards higher levels of competition, including European karting series and eventually single-seaters.
As Moore and Dowling prepare to face off against the best of their generation, their journey represents more than personal ambition — it’s a testament to the growing strength of South African karting on the world stage. With grit, talent, and national pride, they are ready to take on the challenge.
Three Wins, Three Points: Cornofsky Leads Close Regional Mini ROK Fight
The Northern Regions ROK Karting Championship returns to Red Star Raceway this weekend for Round 3, with Kayde Cornofsky leading the Mini ROK standings by a slender three-point margin. The Xtreme Racing Team driver has already claimed three victories from six races this season, underlining his status as a serious title contender.
Kayde’s journey through the 2025 campaign has been a testament to his grit and consistency. Two wins at Red Star Raceway in Round 1 and another at Zwartkops’ Round 2 showcased his outright pace. At the same time, his ability to recover from setbacks has kept him firmly in the championship hunt. As the championship reaches its midway point, Kayde is determined to build on his momentum and widen the gap at the top.
“Red Star hasn’t always been kind to me, but it’s a track I enjoy racing at,” says Kayde. “We’ve had some mixed results there before, and with the championship being so close, every race counts. The focus is on clean racing, maximising points, and continuing to fight for that number one spot.”
The weekend's action kicks off with practice sessions on Friday, setting the stage for a competitive Saturday featuring qualifying and three race heats. With a tightly-packed field and local pride on the line, spectators can expect exciting wheel-to-wheel battles throughout the day.
Kayde continues to receive invaluable support from Allegiance Properties, Canario Cornofsky Attorneys, Calisto’s Portuguese Restaurant, Smith Garage, the 357, and AMW.
Breaking Barriers: Chloe Stuart’s Saloon Car Journey Gains Momentum
Chloe making her debut at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit earlier this season (Photo: Pablo Clark Racing)
Chloe Stuart’s motorsport journey is a testament to determination, adaptability, and raw talent. Starting out in karting and honing her craft in single-seaters, Chloe has seamlessly transitioned into saloon car racing, where she now takes on her next challenge behind the wheel of a race-prepared E46 BMW.
As part of BMW South Africa’s groundbreaking collaboration with NGK Pablo Clark Racing, Chloe represents a new wave of homegrown talent benefiting from official manufacturer support. This initiative, launched at the 2024 BMW M Fest, is designed to foster transformation and open doors for aspirational young drivers, giving them the tools and opportunities to succeed.
After making an impressive debut at Kyalami, Chloe returns for her second outing this coming weekend at Zwartkops Raceway with a clear goal: to keep learning, keep pushing, and continue proving that she belongs at the sharp end of South African motorsport.
Scribante Setup Struggles Stall van der Merwe’s SupaCup Progress
Round 3 of the South African Touring Cars (SATC) SupaCup ended on Saturday with Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa's (TGRSA) sole entry, Dawie van der Merwe, finishing seventh overall after two challenging races at the Aldo Scribante Race Track, Gqeberha.
Despite spending all of Friday setting up the car for Saturday’s qualifying, it was not where Dawie wanted it to be. The team, however, did their best to provide Dawie with the most balanced setup for the 2,4km Eastern Cape circuit. Dawie eventually qualified in sixth, despite all the struggles.
In an uneventful opening race, the former GR86 Cup Champion could not make up any positions, crossing the finish line in sixth. Race 2 would be more challenging, with Dawie struggling with understeer after colliding with another competitor early in the race. The young Mbombela businessman pushed through, spending much of the race fending off his challengers. When the chequered flag dropped, the SupaStarlet driver finished eighth.
“We threw everything at it on Friday, but come race day, the car just didn’t respond the way we’d hoped,” Dawie admitted. “I had to fight hard in both races, especially the second one where I picked up some damage after an incident. It was then all about salvaging points and learning from the experience.”
Dawie returns for the fourth round on 20-21 June when the Extreme Festival presented by Coca Cola makes its first of two visits to the Zwartkops Raceway near Pretoria.
Gianna Pascoal Battles Through Stormy Debut at FIA Karting Academy Trophy
Gianna Pascoal (middle row, fifth from the left) debuted in the FIA Karting Academy Trophy - Seniors in Portugal this weekend.
South Africa’s Gianna Pascoal endured a weekend of extreme challenges during the opening round of the 2025 FIA Karting Academy Trophy in Portimão, Portugal. Representing not only her country but the entire African continent in the senior debut of this prestigious international series, Gianna faced inclement weather that played a defining role throughout the event.
Despite the difficult conditions, Gianna showed unwavering strength. After navigating unfavourable heat races that were marred by rain, she qualified for Sunday’s final and lined up 26th on the grid. The final brought fresh unpredictability, as rain began intermittently before and at the start of the race. With all but one driver opting for slick tyres, grip levels varied dramatically across the circuit.
Determined to claw her way forward, Gianna fought her way into a fierce midfield battle, reaching 19th position. However, while showcasing the spirit and resolve that earned her a place on the global stage, her run ended early when she was involved in an on-track incident that forced her to retire from the race.
Although the final result didn’t reflect her effort and pace, Gianna’s presence on the international stage is a proud milestone for South African motorsport and an inspiring leap for female representation in world karting. Her perseverance through adversity reaffirms her standing as one of Africa’s rising talents and sets the stage for redemption in the following rounds in Italy and Denmark.
Tyler Robinson Eyes More Silverware as Polo Cup Heads Home
Fresh off a historic maiden victory at Kyalami, Tyler Robinson heads to Aldo Scribante Race Circuit with momentum on her side and her sights firmly set on another strong performance in Round 3 of the 2025 Astron Energy Polo Cup.
The 2.48 km Eastern Cape circuit is renowned for its tight layout and technical corners making car setup and tyre management key to success. The venue is also the home of Volkswagen Motorsport, adding another layer of intensity to the weekend in front of an always appreciative crowd.
Tyler, now in her third Polo Cup season, made headlines at Kyalami by becoming the youngest female driver to win a race in the category’s nearly three-decade history. Her calculated drive in Race 1, followed by a gritty recovery in Race 2, saw her finish third overall and solidify her place in the championship battle.
“I still get goosebumps thinking about the win at Kyalami,” said Tyler. “But now the focus shifts to Aldo. It’s a completely different challenge, short, twisty, and very demanding. The key will be qualifying well and staying consistent across both races.”
The Eastern Cape circuit has often produced unpredictable racing, and with the 2025 field proving as tight as ever, every point matters. Tyler enters the weekend full of confidence and determination as she continues to make her mark in South African motorsport.
From GR Cup Glory to SupaCup Showdown – Dawie Targets Gqeberha Success
Dawie van der Merwe will continue his debut season in the South African Touring Cars (SATC) SupaCup as the championship heads to Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) for Round 3 on 9 - 10 May. The action shifts to Aldo Scribante Racetrack, a tight and technical coastal circuit that demands precision and confidence from the drivers.
Representing Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa (TGRSA) and Fast Developments, the talented driver from Mbombela, Mpumalanga, has already impressed in his first two SupaCup outings. After a strong showing at Killarney, Cape Town and a determined performance at Kyalami, Midrand, Dawie now returns to a circuit where he’s had plenty of success.
Aldo Scribante is familiar territory for the 23-year-old, who previously competed at the venue in both the Polo and TGRSA GR Cup. It was his standout 2024 season in the GR Cup, including victories at circuits like Aldo Scribante, that ultimately earned him his place on the SupaCup grid with TGRSA this year.
With his growing confidence in the SupaStarlet and prior knowledge of the Eastern Cape circuit, Dawie enters Round 3 aiming to push further up the order. As the season heads towards its midpoint, consistency and steady progress remain his focus in one of South Africa’s most competitive national championships.
All eyes will be on Gqeberha for another thrilling SupaCup weekend, and Dawie vd Merwe is more than ready to make it count.
Stay abreast of news and updates by following Dawie's social media channels on the links below:
Gianna Pascoal to Represent Africa in FIA Karting Academy Opener
South African karting standout Gianna Pascoal will represent not just her country, but the entire African continent, when she lines up at the Kartódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão, Portugal, this weekend for the opening round of the inaugural FIA Karting Academy Trophy—Seniors.
Selected as the continent’s sole representative, Gianna joins a grid of 36 elite drivers aged 14 to 16. This senior version of the successful Junior Academy program marks a pivotal step forward in the FIA’s commitment to cultivating talent globally, with equal equipment supplied to all competitors and a focus on driver skill above all else.
The competition utilises Exprit chassis paired with Vortex engines, both provided by the OTK Kart Group, with equipment allocation determined by a draw. All drivers compete on Maxxis tyres, ensuring parity, while OMP Racing Force supplies racewear and team apparel.
Gianna enters the international campaign on strong form, having recently secured her first overall win and heat victory in the South African Senior MAX category. Backed by the Wesleigh Orr Racing (WORR) team, she carries valuable European experience from the WSK Series and the Champions of the Future Academy Program, positioning her as a true force in the Academy’s debut season.
With additional rounds set for Italy in June and Denmark in August, the Academy Trophy promises a high level of competition and a platform for emerging stars like Gianna to shine on the world stage. Her participation marks a significant milestone for South African motorsport. It serves as a powerful statement for African representation in global karting, particularly for women striving for equality in elite-level competition.
Intensity Peaks at Vereeniging as Rotax National Title Race Heats Up
The Vereeniging Kart Circuit hosted the second round of the South African Rotax MAX Challenge Championship on 26 April and fans were treated to fast-paced, closely-contested kart action.
The second round of the 2025 South African Rotax MAX Challenge (SARMC) brought national karting action back to the Vereeniging Kart Circuit, Gauteng, this past weekend. Nearly 100 competitors nationwide took on the technical 1,000m circuit. With only two rounds left in the championship, Round 2 was a vital stop to becoming the national champion and competing at the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals (RMCGF).
DD2 – Coetzee Cleans Up
Jason Coetzee delivered a clinical performance in the DD2 class at Vereeniging, underlining his championship ambitions with a clean sweep of all three heats. The Cape Town star was in a league of his own, combining blistering pace with unshakable composure to make it five national heat wins out of six for the season. His chief rival, 2023 champion Sebastian Boyd, pushed hard all weekend, staying within striking distance and challenging Coetzee in the early laps, but ultimately had no answer to his pace and consistency.
Matthew Wadeley added to the Cape Town charge with two strong podium finishes to secure third overall, narrowly edging out fellow WPMC teammate Anwill April and Gauteng contender Dusan Radojevic. With two rounds remaining, including the technical iDube Raceway, Coetzee now leads Boyd by 12 points in what’s shaping up to be a fierce battle for the title.
Capetonians Sebastian Boyd (#69) and Jason Coetzee (#77) went toe-to-toe for the DD2 honours.
DD2 Masters – Pieterse Edges Auby
The DD2 Masters category delivered three thrilling races, with three different heat winners and five seasoned contenders battling it out across the weekend. Jonathan Pieterse emerged as the victor at Vereeniging, claiming the win through consistent results (1st, 2nd, 4th) to edge out former Wesbank V8 Modified Saloons car driver Jimmy Auby by a single point. Auby, who clinched the final heat, finished second overall with a pair of third places backing up his win.
Five-time RMCGF winner Cristiano Morgado had solid pace, setting the weekend's fastest lap, but a DNF in the final heat saw him drop to third in the final standings. Mozambique's Cristian Bouché and Johannesburg's Justin Rogers completed the top five, each showing moments of speed but unable to convert them into higher overall points.
Eleven points now separate the championship leader, Pieterse, and Morgado.
Jonathan Pieterse was victorious in the DD2 Masters class
Senior MAX – Pascoal Records Maiden Win
In a weekend filled with tight margins and fearless racing, Gianna Pascoal stole the spotlight in Senior MAX. The WORR driver delivered a landmark performance, claiming her first-ever national heat victory in Heat 2. She backed it up with two runner-up finishes in the other races to secure the overall win, a breakthrough moment in her national karting campaign.
Pascoal was relentless throughout the weekend, clocking the fastest lap in all three heats and showcasing mature racecraft as she held off a strong field that included former national champions. Her results were enough to edge out Charl Visser, who finished second overall after winning Heat 1 and placing third in the other two.
Kent Swartz, who started from pole and claimed a dramatic third heat victory, rounded out the podium in third overall. Swartz showed excellent pace but was hampered by a nose-cone penalty in Heat 2, which ultimately cost him a higher finish.
Tayla Scrimgeour and Ethan Bostander, who finished fourth and fifth, respectively, also recorded strong drives, with Scrimgeour the standout performer. Visser, however, extends his lead to 32 points over Fellow Cape karter Jordon Wadeley.
Gianna Pascoal (#317) recorded her maiden Senior MAX victory this weekend.
Junior MAX – Mason Doubles Up, Moss Rallies
Mattao Mason came into Round 2 determined to make a statement, primarily competing in Germany and Italy while making his first national Junior MAX appearance. The double national champion stormed to pole position and won the opening two heats, setting the fastest lap in the opener. In the final race, Mason initially led, but a mid-race exchange saw Tshepang Shisinwana briefly take the lead before Caleb Moss pounced and powered through to take his first national heat win.
Mason’s 1-1-2 scoreline still handed him the overall win on points, while Moss's strong finish kept him firmly in title contention. Sebastian Blignaut, Shisinwana and Reagile Mailula rounded out the top five. A notable performance from Emma-Rose Dowling saw her secure an impressive third and fourth place in the opening two heats, demonstrating her remarkable rise in the standings. Despite facing a challenging race-ending crash that prevented her from achieving a top-three finish, her perseverance and strength inspire many.
Dowling drops to third in the championship, with Moss leading out Sebastiano Human by 16 points.
Mattao Mason (#428) claimed a double heat victory and the overall Junior MAX spoils.
Mini MAX – Dowling Triumps, Boshoff Stays Top
After two dominant race wins, Brodi Dowling made it an overall victory in a massive Mini MAX field. The Kart Republic driver, who recently returned from a stint in the Champions of the Future Academy Program, held his composure under pressure from championship leader Max Boshoff and a charging Declan Jurgens. Boshoff and Jurgens showed a strong pace but couldn't match Dowling's consistency.
Boshoff, however, kept his championship momentum alive with a trio of top-three finishes, while Jurgens remained in the hunt with a second place in Heat 2. Rafael De Sousa and Michael Arde completed the top five finishers. Boshoff leads Dowling by 11 points heading to KZN.
Brodi Dowling (#522) claimed two wins in Mini MAX.
Micro MAX – O'Mahoney Takes Two, De Wet Fights Back
After two breathtakingly close heats, Michael O'Mahoney looked set for a clean sweep in Micro MAX, taking wins in Heats 1 and 2. But championship leader Luhan de Wet, who had narrowly lost Heat 1 by just 0.051 seconds, returned the favour in Heat 3, delivering a sensational drive and posting the fastest lap of the day to take the victory.
Former National Bambino Champion Adriaan Steyn finished second overall, ahead of a podium-less Luke du Toit. Radhi Harris, Ronald Venter, and Riley van Staden each secured a podium finish on the day and were consistently among the frontrunners. O'Mahoney takes a three-point lead into the second half of the championship.
Bambino - De Oliveira Untouchable
Alonzo de Oliveira delivered a dominant performance at the Vereeniging Kart Circuit, sweeping all three heats to secure a perfect points haul in the Bambino class. After setting the pace in qualifying, the young Rand Kart Club driver held his nerve under pressure to lead every race from the front except two laps.
Winning the opening heat by almost 10 seconds, he had to fend off the challenges of his championship rival Sebastien Shuttleworth in Heats 2 and 3, with the winning margin just over two-tenths of a second on each occasion.
Divaaj Govender, the championship leader heading into this round, finished third overall with three podiums, while Sean Arde and Zonkizizwe Holomisa claimed fourth and fifth, respectively.
The top driver's consistent pace bodes well for an exciting title fight heading into Round 3, where De Oliveira takes a 14-point advantage into the weekend.
Next Up: Idube Raceway, KZN
With two rounds remaining, including a return to the picturesque iDube Raceway in June, the 2025 SARMC championship battles are far from settled. The quest to earn a place on Team South Africa at the RMCGF intensifies from here, and every point matters.
De Wet Fights Back to Fourth in Vereeniging Micro MAX Thriller
Motorsport Fanatix™ ambassador Luhan de Wet delivered another gritty and resolute performance in Round 2 of the 2025 South African Rotax MAX Challenge this past weekend at the Vereeniging Kart Circuit. Despite a dramatic Heat 2 setback, the Xtreme Racing Team driver walked away with fourth overall in the competitive Micro MAX class, reinforcing his status as a championship contender.
Luhan started the weekend strongly by qualifying third on Friday afternoon, laying the groundwork for what would be a high-stakes race day. In Heat 1, he quickly took the lead and controlled most of the 12-lap contest before finishing second. Incredibly, just 0.053 seconds separated the top three at the flag in one of the closest finishes of the season.
Heat 2 brought heartbreak. Starting from fifth position, Luhan was in the process of moving forward when contact resulted in a race-ending incident. The DNF was a significant blow to his overall result and championship lead. But as he's done before, the former national Cadet champion showed immense resilience.
In the final race, Luhan charged back in dominant fashion, taking a commanding win and recording the weekend's fastest lap. His fourth victory in this year's national campaign underscored his pace and mental toughness.
"Sometimes racing throws tough moments at you, but I've learned to bounce back," Luhan reflected after the event. "I knew I had the speed, and I just focused on delivering in the final heat. I'm really proud of the way we ended the weekend. We're still in the fight, and I'm hungrier than ever for that title."
Backed by De Wet Automotive Service & Repair Services, Luhan now turns his focus to the next national round. He is confident that his consistency, pace, and fighting spirit will keep him firmly in the hunt for the 2025 national Micro MAX crown and his dream of competing at the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals.
Odendaal Battles Back in Tough SARMC Weekend
Three-time national karting champion Caleb Odendaal endured a challenging but character-defining weekend at the second round of the 2025 South African Rotax MAX Challenge (SARMC) held at Vereeniging Kart Circuit.
After qualifying an impressive second on Friday afternoon, Caleb launched into the opening heat with a lightning-fast start, leading the early stages. Despite crossing the line in third after a hard-fought race, he was unfortunately excluded from the results due to a technical infringement, forcing him to start the second heat from the back of the grid.
Undeterred, Caleb showed his fighting spirit in Heat 2 by charging from 19th on the grid to 11th at the flag, carving his way through the competitive Junior MAX field with calculated aggression. In the final race of the day, he once again demonstrated his racecraft and resilience, battling fiercely for a top-five finish before ultimately settling for sixth place at the end of an intense contest.
The cumulative results saw Caleb classified 15th overall for the weekend — an unrepresentative finish given the pace and determination he displayed throughout the event.
Reflecting on the weekend, Caleb shared: "It was a tough weekend with a lot of lessons learned. I'm proud of how we fought back after the setback. I know we have the speed — now it’s about staying sharp, moving forward, and coming back stronger at the next one. Thank you to my team, Legend Motors, Kart Republic Africa, and everyone who supports me."
Backed by Legend Motors and Kart Republic Africa, Caleb remains firmly in the hunt for the Junior MAX national crown as the season heads into its critical stages. Caleb is backed by Legend Motors and Kart Republic Africa.
Steyn Claims Micro MAX Runner-Up Finish at Vereeniging SARMC
Centurion's rising star, Adriaan Steyn, continued his strong national campaign with a determined performance at Round 2 of the 2025 South African Rotax MAX Challenge (SARMC) hosted at the Vereeniging Kart Circuit this past weekend. The former national Bambino champion delivered a consistent showing to claim a well-earned second place overall in the Micro MAX class.
Adriaan started the weekend strongly by narrowly missing out on pole position, qualifying second by just 0.023 seconds. His pace was evident throughout Saturday's racing, although outright victories eluded him.
In the opening heat, Adriaan crossed the line in fifth, managing to salvage solid points after a spirited drive. In Heat 2, he battled in a tightly packed leading group to finish sixth. Saving his best performance for the final race, Adriaan lined up in pole position and executed a strong race to finish second, securing the overall runner-up spot for the event.
Reflecting on his weekend, Adriaan commented: "We had great pace and were right there from the start. Although I didn't get a heat win this time, the consistency across all three races paid off. Thank you to Greensky, Q4 Fuels, and Sparco for their amazing support. I'm excited for the next round and will be pushing hard to go one better."
The results see Adriaan maintain strong momentum in the championship standings as the SARMC heads into the mid-season stages. With his pace continuing to improve, he remains firmly in contention for national honours and a coveted spot on Team South Africa for the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals later this year.