National Leader Alonzo Eyes African Open Triumph
National Bambino championship leader Alonzo de Oliveira returns to action this weekend as he lines up at the prestigious Rotax African Open hosted at Zwartkops Kart Raceway. With the event’s unique winner-takes-all format, anticipation is high as South Africa’s youngest karting talent prepares for a high-stakes showdown.
Unlike a standard national round, the African Open features two qualifying heats that determine grid positions for the all-important final race, where the victor alone claims the crown. For most Rotax classes, this event serves as a qualifier for the 2025 Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals in Bahrain. However, in the Bambino class, where drivers compete with Comer engines, the reward is an air ticket to spectate the Grand Finals and experience international competition firsthand.
Motorsport Fanatix™ brand ambassador Alonzo arrives at Zwartkops in peak form, topping the national standings thanks to consistent podiums and dominant performances across both regional and national events this year. A clean sweep of victories at the Vereeniging and iDube national rounds solidified his status as a championship frontrunner. It reinforced his growing reputation as one of the sport’s brightest young stars.
Six practice sessions on Thursday and four more on Friday will help drivers fine-tune their setups ahead of the late-afternoon qualifying session. Saturday marks the decisive day, with two qualifying heats setting the stage for the final, where only one driver will emerge victorious.
With past successes at Zwartkops and momentum on his side, Alonzo will be aiming to put on a show and add the African Open title to his expanding karting résumé.
Alonzo is backed by Y2K Germiston, MSLB Projects, Amigos Portugueses, Freddy Hirsch, S.Y. Wholesale Butchery, Hercules Foods, Hercules Sauces, and HPP
De Wet Targets Winner-Takes-All African Open Title
Luhan de Wet, the young Motorsport Fanatix™ ambassador, will line up at this weekend’s Rotax African Open at Zwartkops Kart Raceway with one goal in mind: victory. As the unique format returns, the Micro MAX front-runner aims to secure the coveted invitation to the 2025 Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals, often referred to as the Olympics of Karting, scheduled to take place in Bahrain.
Unlike the traditional national format, the African Open features two qualifying heats that determine grid positions for a single, decisive final. The final heat winner walks away with the spoils, meaning strategy, pace, and nerves of steel all play a critical role.
Luhan arrives in Pretoria as the championship leader in the Micro MAX category. With an astonishing seven wins from nine heats this season, he has been one of the standout performers on the national and regional circuits. The Xtreme Racing Team driver has demonstrated dominant form throughout 2025, including clean sweeps and recovery drives, proving he’s a threat under all conditions.
The event kicks off on Thursday with six practice sessions, followed by four more on Friday, culminating in late-afternoon qualifying. Saturday brings the real action: two qualifying heats set the stage for a winner-takes-all showdown.
“I’ve always dreamed of racing overseas and representing South Africa at the Grand Finals,” said Luhan. “It’s not just about winning, it’s about wearing the flag, beating the best in the world, and racing at the highest level. That would mean everything to me.”
As one of the favourites this weekend, all eyes will be on Luhan as he looks to convert championship momentum into an international opportunity.
Expect fireworks at Zwartkops as the best in Africa battle for glory.
Cape Star Max Boshoff Takes Aim at Rotax World Ticket
Cape Town karting sensation Max Boshoff is set to line up at Zwartkops Kart Raceway this Saturday for one of the most prestigious single-day karting events on the African calendar, the 2025 Rotax African Open.
Unlike regular championship rounds, the African Open is a high-stakes, winner-takes-all affair. Drivers will contest two qualifying heats, with points from those races determining the starting grid for the final. This single race will decide the ultimate victor and award a coveted ticket to represent South Africa at the 2025 Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals in Bahrain, often referred to as the "Olympics of Karting."
Max enters the event in red-hot form, leading the National ROK Cup Mini ROK Championship outright and sharing the points lead in the fiercely contested Mini MAX class of the South African Rotax MAX Challenge. Racing for the Xtreme Racing Team, the 11-year-old has become known for his calculated aggression, lightning starts, and remarkable consistency across both major national series.
This week's African Open kicks off with six practice sessions on Thursday, followed by another four on Friday. Friday afternoon's qualifying session will set the tone for Saturday, when it all comes down to two qualifying heats and a single, decisive final.
For Max, this is more than just another race. Having already proven himself on home turf with victories at Killarney in both ROK and Rotax competition, the Zwartkops challenge presents an opportunity to solidify his reputation on Gauteng soil and potentially secure a ticket to the world stage.
Expect thrilling wheel-to-wheel action and no shortage of drama as Max battles South Africa's best for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Third Race, New Class, Same Fight – Stuart Breaks Out at Red Star
Photo by Michael Engels
The fifth round of the BMW ///M Performance Parts Race Series at Red Star Raceway on Saturday, 28 June 2025, brought another curveball for rising star Chloe Stuart. Still, the Johannesburg teenager proved, once again, that she's more than ready for the challenge.
Competing in just her third competitive round of the 2025 season, Chloe arrived at the Delmas-based circuit in fine form. Throughout Friday's practice sessions, she consistently ran inside the top two on the Class F timesheets, showing confident pace and control. That same pace, however, saw her break out of the designated Class F time bracket, automatically promoting her to the faster and more competitive Class E grid.
Photo by Michael Engels
Rather than shy away from the stiffer competition, Chloe leaned into the opportunity. Qualifying mid-pack among the seasoned Class E drivers, she took to the circuit in her trademark aggressive-yet-responsible style aboard the NGK, Itoo, EasyEquities, Liqui Moly, LMS Electrical Contractors and AutoZone-backed BMW E46.
Throughout the race, Chloe held her own in the midfield, trading positions with more experienced rivals and ultimately securing a strong eighth-place finish out of 13 competitors in Class E. With that, she not only demonstrated her adaptability and racing pedigree but also began collecting points in her new championship class.
Photo by Michael Engels
Her performance reflected the continued success of Pablo Clark Racing's Motorsport Development Program, proudly supported by BMW South Africa and BMW Group Financial Services Africa. Launched as a transformative initiative at BMW M FEST in 2024, the program continues to nurture young talent like Chloe through real-world track experience and engineering expertise.
With only three rounds under her belt this season, Chloe Stuart's rapid rise and fearless racecraft are already turning heads in the BMW paddock. Her momentum in Class E is unmistakable, and the best is undoubtedly still to come.
Jack Moore Wins on Home Soil and Secures FIA OK-N Junior World Cup Berth
Jack Moore delivered a commanding performance in Round 3 of the 2025 ROK Cup South Africa Kart Championship, securing overall victory in the OK-Junior class at the Celso Scribante Kart Circuit, Gqeberha. In doing so, booked his ticket to the prestigious FIA OK-N Junior World Cup in Italy in September.
Returning to his home circuit, the reigning national champion showed intent from the outset. Jack topped qualifying with a blistering 49.066 lap, the fastest of the weekend.
In Heat 1, Jack initially led before being overtaken by title rival Reagile Mailula. Despite the challenge, he stayed composed and crossed the line second, still managing to set an event-record lap during the race. He bounced back superbly in Heat 2, executing a perfect start and never looking back, taking a dominant lights-to-flag win.
The final heat was all about control. After momentarily dropping to second in the early laps, Jack retook the lead and executed a string of consistent laps to claim victory and seal the overall win adding 102 points to his national points tally thereby extending his lead.
“It’s always special to win at home,” said Jack. “I felt in sync with the kart all weekend and the support from my team and sponsors really gave me that extra push. To now be heading to the World Cup is an incredible honour. I can’t wait to represent South Africa on the world stage again.”
The international journey of the OK-N and OK-N Junior categories began in 2023 with the Road to the OK-N World Cup event organized by ACI Sport at Franciacorta. In 2024, the first official FIA Karting World Cup for OK-N was held in the UK at the PFI circuit. In 2025, for the first time, both OK-N and OK-N Junior categories will share the spotlight at the FIA Karting World Cup in Cremona.
Jack extends his gratitude to Xtreme Racing, Fleet Dynamics Group, and Puma South Africa for their continued support.
Local Talent Lights It Up: Aashay Nagura Grabs Another OKJ Trophy
Eastern Cape hometown hero Aashay Nagura thrilled local fans this past weekend as he charged to his second consecutive podium in the National OK-Junior class during Round 3 of the ROK Cup Karting Championship, held at Celso Scribante in Gqeberha.
Continuing to build on his impressive OK-Junior debut in Cape Town, Nagura was immediately on the pace. He delivered a superb qualifying performance to line up fourth on the grid, just 0.205s off pole position in an ultra-tight session that underlined his growing confidence in the class.
In Heat 1, Aashay made a strong start and slotted into second place early on. Running inside the top five for much of the race, he looked set for a solid opening result. However, an incident and a post-race nose cone infringement penalty cost him dearly, dropping him to the bottom of the result.
Shaking off the setback, the Kokoro Racing Academy driver came back firing in Heat 2. After a clean start, he kept pressure on the leaders and crossed the line second behind overall winner Jack Moore, his best result in the class to date and a statement performance among South Africa’s finest young karters.
In the final heat, Aashay pulled off a spectacular launch and even led the first lap, much to the delight of the home crowd. While he eventually dropped to fourth, he remained within striking distance of the podium and brought the kart home for valuable points.
Thanks to his consistency and strong pace throughout the weekend, Aashay finished third overall on points, tied with Aleksandar Praizovic but ranked ahead on countback due to his higher Race 2 finish.
“Starting in front of my home crowd and grabbing the lead at the start of Race 3 was such an adrenaline rush,” Aashay shared. “I’m really proud of how we’ve progressed. It’s been a steep learning curve since moving from Mini ROK, but we’re making real progress every time we hit the track.”
With support from The Bronscor Group, Sparco South Africa, INGCO South Africa, and Score Immune Booster, Aashay continues to rise through the ranks.
The fourth and final round heads back to Red Star Raceway on 23–24 August, where Aashay will look to end his debut OKJ season on a high, and perhaps even clinch his maiden national win.
Cornofsky Claims Victory in Final Heat, Seals Gqeberha Podium
Kayde Cornofsky showcased his class at Round 3 of the 2025 National ROK Cup Kart Championship in Gqeberha, finishing second overall after storming to a brilliant victory in the final Mini ROK heat of the day.
Driving for the Xtreme Racing Team, Cornofsky qualified a strong fourth in a tight session where the top four drivers were separated by just over a tenth of a second. He then delivered a trio of determined and consistent performances against the country’s top Mini ROK talents.
In Heat 1, Kayde drove a measured race, climbing from sixth to secure a well-earned third-place finish after late-race pressure and quick lap times. His pace was strong despite a tricky start.
Heat 2 saw Kayde again in the mix, fighting off close attention in the midfield while trying to close the gap to the front runners. A brief trip to the grass would see the former National Kid ROK champion cross the finish line fifth.
But it was in Heat 3 where Cornofsky stamped his authority. After running fourth in the early laps, Kayde capitalised on an error from the race leader and made a decisive move on lap 7 to take control of the race. He didn’t look back, clocking the fastest lap of the heat (54.838) and pulling away to clinch his first national race win of 2025.
Reflecting on the weekend, Cornofsky said:
“This was a big step forward for us. The last race felt amazing, I had good grip, great balance, and the kart just came alive. Thanks to the whole Xtreme Racing Team and all my sponsors for backing me. We’re still in the fight for this championship, and I’m going to keep pushing.”
The result gives Cornofsky a slim opportunity to clinch the title with the finale hosting four heats. With momentum now swinging back in his favour, Kayde is more motivated than ever.
Kayde is proudly supported by Allegiance Properties, Canario Cornofsky Attorneys, Calisto’s Portuguese Restaurant, Smith Garage, the 357, and AMW. Their ongoing commitment to his racing journey remains a vital part of his success.
Heartbreak in PE: Max Boshoff Misses Podium After Late DNF
Championship leader Max Boshoff endured a rollercoaster weekend at the penultimate round of the ROK Cup National South Africa at Celso Scribante Raceway. After showing front-running pace, a last-lap incident in Heat 1 and a DNF in the final heat dropped the Xtreme Racing driver to sixth overall in the Mini ROK class.
Boshoff started his weekend on a strong note, qualifying second, just 0.035s off pole, highlighting his outright speed on the tight Gqeberha circuit. In Heat 1, Max led the race from lap 3 through to 11 and set the fastest lap of the heat, but finished seventh following a do-or-die manoeuvre from a competitor on the last lap that saw him punted off the circuit and rejoining second to last.
He bounced back with a dominant lights-to-flag win in Heat 2, leading every lap under pressure. Max’s pace was unmatched as he recorded another fastest lap and took maximum points from the heat. However, Heat 3 proved disastrous. Starting from fifth, Max was forced to retire on the opening lap with a technical failure, recording a DNF that would severely hamper his overall points tally for the weekend.
Despite the setback, Max still sits atop the championship standings heading into the final round.
“We had incredible pace all weekend and it was evident. Unfortunately, these things happen and we’ll regroup and come back stronger at the final round at Red Star Raceway,” said Max. " Thanks to everyone for the support and hard work. I really appreciate it."
Gqeberha’s Rising Karting Star Aims to Dazzle on Home Soil
Aashay Nagura is all set to light up the Celso Scribante Kart Circuit in Gqeberha this weekend, as Round 3 of the 2025 MSA National ROK Cup Karting Championship heads to the Eastern Cape. It marks a return to familiar territory for the rising star who will be hoping to build on his stellar OK-Junior debut in Cape Town, where he finished on the overall podium.
After starting the season in the Mini ROK category at Red Star Raceway, Aashay made the bold decision to step up to the faster and more physically demanding OK-Junior class from Round 2 onwards. That decision paid immediate dividends as the Kokoro Racing Academy driver adapted rapidly, finishing third overall at Killarney in only his first national outing in the class.
Celso Scribante, a circuit Aashay knows well from regional competition, offers a golden opportunity to continue his momentum. His experience around the technical Gqeberha layout could prove crucial as he looks to challenge the national frontrunners like Jack Moore and Reagile Mailula.
Backed by a formidable support network, including the Bronscor Group, Sparco South Africa, INGCO South Africa, and Score Immune Booster, Aashay aims to utilise his local knowledge and growing confidence in the OK-Junior kart to his advantage.
Friday’s practice sessions will be followed by qualifying and three heats on Saturday that will determine the overall victor. With the championship now at its mid-point, Aashay might not be in the championship running, but it serves as another opportunity to show his racing prowess.
Can the hometown hero deliver and climb further up the championship ladder? All eyes will be on the #27 kart this Saturday in Gqeberha.
Cornofsky Eyes Championship Boost at Celso Scribante
Kayde Cornofsky has faced some tough challenges this season, demonstrating commendable determination in his performances at Red Star Raceway and Killarney, where he finished third and fourth overall. As he approaches the midpoint of the season, he currently sits third in the Mini ROK championship standings. With a 29-point gap to bridge and just one point separating him from second place, he understands the requirement for a successful outing at Celso Scribante is for him.
Now in his second season in the Mini ROK category, the former Kid ROK National Champion continues to impress with his consistency and raw pace. Backed by the expert support of the Xtreme Racing Team and mentor Leeroy Poulter, Kayde has shown he has the grit to recover from setbacks and the composure to fight at the sharp end of the field.
"Celso Scribante is a track that rewards commitment and precision,” said Cornofsky. “We’ve worked hard between rounds, and I’m feeling confident heading into this weekend. The goal is to maximise points, push for the wins and close the gap to the championship leader.”
Kayde will face off against a fiercely competitive national field in three heats on Saturday, with practice and setup taking place on Friday. With weather always a factor in Gqeberha, adaptability will be key as the championship momentum hangs in the balance.
Kayde races with the valued support of Allegiance Properties, Canario Cornofsky Attorneys, Calisto’s Portuguese Restaurant, Smith Garage, the 357, and AMW. Their continued backing is instrumental in his pursuit of national success.
Unstoppable Max Looks to Extend Mini ROK Lead
South Africa’s Mini ROK frontrunner, Max Boshoff, is ready to take on Round 3 of the National ROK Cup Karting Championship this weekend at the Celso Scribante Kart Track in Gqeberha. After two rounds of commanding performances, the Cape Town-based talent arrives at the coastal circuit leading the championship standings, having taken five victories from six heats.
Max, racing for the Xtreme Racing Team, has been a force across both national karting championships this season. He started the season by dominating the SA Rotax MAX Challenge opener at Killarney. He followed that up with a stunning recovery drive in the ROK Cup at the same venue, overcoming mechanical setbacks to notch up two wins and extend his Mini ROK lead.
Now heading to a new challenge at Celso Scribante, Max’s consistency, versatility, and sheer pace mark him as the one to beat. Known for its high-speed turns and technical infield, the Gqeberha circuit will reward the same precision and calm under pressure that has become hallmarks of Max’s 2025 campaign.
“My focus is on building on the momentum and staying consistent,” Max said ahead of the weekend. “I’ve got a great team behind me and I’m looking forward to racing at a track we race at seldom.”
With two rounds remaining in the national championship, every point is critical. Max enters Round 3 not only as the championship leader but as the benchmark for the rest of the field, a position earned through relentless preparation, sharp racecraft, and an evident hunger for success.
Corsa dei Gemelli Celebrates Breakthrough Win at MSA4 Season Opener
The wait was finally over. After months of delays and a handful of promising test days, the 2025 Investchem MSA4 Championship roared to life under clear winter skies at Zwartkops Raceway. For Corsa dei Gemelli, it was a historic weekend, marking the team’s first-ever race outing in South Africa’s premier single-seater championship. Despite a few inevitable teething issues, the new outfit walked away with all three races completed, a solid points haul, and a spectacular maiden victory.
From the outset, 17-year-old Mikel Bezuidenhout, now in his second season of single-seater racing, set the tone for the weekend. With experience on his side, Mikel delivered a confident qualifying performance to secure fifth on the grid. Making his circuit racing debut, 21-year-old Kian Spies qualified 11th, gaining his first taste of wheel-to-wheel action in a highly competitive MSA4 field.
The opening race of the day served as a foundation-setting run for both drivers. With the primary focus on clean execution and data collection, neither Mikel nor Kian made up positions, but both cars finished the race without incident, an important milestone for any new team entering a top-tier championship.
Race 2 saw the Corsa dei Gemelli duo find their rhythm. Mikel maintained a consistent pace to finish in sixth place, while Kian put in an assertive drive to break into the top ten for the first time, crossing the line in ninth. The result marked his best finish of the day and a clear indicator of his growing confidence behind the wheel.
But it was in Race 3 where everything came together. Mikel, determined to make a statement, charged off the start line from third to take the lead of the race before Turn 3. With that, he claimed a stunning victory, his first in the MSA4 Championship and a momentous achievement for Corsa dei Gemelli in their inaugural event.
The team garage erupted in celebration as months of preparation and perseverance paid off dramatically. Kian, meanwhile, brought his car home in 12th, rounding off a clean weekend with three solid finishes and valuable experience banked.
Reflecting on the weekend, Mikel shared:
“I’m proud to know that we could turn a tough Saturday into a race winthis afternoon. While the car felt mostly strong, there were a few niggly issues and credit to the team for sticking with it. It’s only the beginning, but this win means a lot to all of us.”
Kian echoed the positive momentum, saying:
“This was a huge step up from karting, and I learned so much in just one weekend. Getting my first top ten in Race 2 and finishing all three races was a big win in itself. Massive thanks to the team for the support and while I am personally a little frustrated, I’m excited to build on this.”
Team management praised the efforts of both drivers and the crew, noting the importance of the weekend’s results in laying a strong foundation for the rest of the season. A special word of thanks goes to the team’s partners: Huawei Mobile, MTN CosmoNet, and Mix FM 93.8, whose support has made this journey possible.
With the team’s first win secured and valuable data in hand, attention now turns to Round 2 at the East London Grand Prix Circuit on 18-19 July, where Corsa dei Gemelli will look to continue their upward trajectory in what promises to be an electrifying debut season.
Jack Moore Prepares for Home Track Showdown at Celso Scribante
Reigning OK-Junior National Champion Jack Moore returns to his hometown of Gqeberha this weekend for Round 3 of the ROK Cup South Africa Karting Championship, hosted at the fast and technical Celso Scribante Kart Circuit.
Currently leading the points standings with 193 championship points after two fiercely contested rounds, Moore is riding a wave of momentum. The Eastern Cape star kicked off his title defence with a trio of podiums at Red Star Raceway, narrowly missing out on overall victory on countback. He followed it up with a commanding performance at Killarney, taking pole position and winning the final heat convincingly, despite double nose-cone penalties earlier in the day that denied him a clean sweep.
The upcoming race at Celso Scribante marks a pivotal moment in the season, not just because of the championship implications but because it's Jack's home round. With the support of the local crowd and familiarity with the technical Gqeberha circuit, Jack is expected to be a frontrunner once again.
"The pace has been strong all season," said Jack. "We've just got to stay clean, avoid penalties, and keep banking points. Racing at home is always special, even though it isn't a circuit I compete at much. But regardless, I'll be giving it everything in front of the local supporters."
Backed by Xtreme Racing, Puma South Africa, and Fleet Dynamics Group, Moore has shown race-winning speed and maturity in defending his crown. But he'll need to stay sharp with rivals like Reagile Mailula and Aleksandar Praizovic still within striking distance in the points standings.
The third round of the national championship gets underway with practice and qualifying on Friday, followed by three all-important heats on Saturday.
Jack's fans can follow his journey via his official Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/JackMoore
Bezuidenhout Seals MSA4 Race 3 Win Despite Mechanical Woes
Mikel Bezuidenhout, competing for Corsa dei Gemelli in the Investchem MSA4 single-seater championship, delivered a strong performance at Zwartkops Raceway this past weekend during the series' much-anticipated opening round. The Sandton-based teenager overcame mechanical adversity to secure a race victory and cement his status as a contender in the new category.
After qualifying fifth on Saturday morning, Mikel and the team faced an uphill battle due to a persistent fuel pressure issue that had plagued the car throughout the weekend. Despite this, the team worked tirelessly between sessions to troubleshoot the problem and keep Mikel in the mix.
He showed consistency and racecraft in the opening two races, finishing fifth and sixth, respectively, solid results given the technical limitations.
But it was in the third and final race that Mikel's true spirit and perseverance shone through. Launching off the line with pinpoint precision, he snatched the lead within the opening corners and drove flawlessly to maintain the position until the chequered flag, claiming a well-deserved first win in the MSA4 series.
"It's been a weekend of highs and lows," Mikel reflected. "We had to fight through some issues, but the team never gave up. Taking the win in the final race was a great reward for all the hard work. I'm proud of what we achieved and even more motivated for the next round."
This performance reaffirms Mikel's adaptability across disciplines and positions him as one to watch this season. As both a rising star in single-seaters and a committed karter, Mikel's journey in 2025 continues to gain momentum.
The next round of competition will see South Africa's premier single-seater championship make its way to the iconic East London Grand Prix Circuit.
MTN Cosmo-Net and Huawei Mobile South Africa proudly support Mikel Bezuidenhout.
Never Give Up: Tyler’s Grit Shines Through in Zwartkops Comeback
It was an emotional rollercoaster of a weekend for AF Fans-backed Tyler Robinson as Round 4 of the 2025 Astron Energy Polo Cup unfolded at Zwartkops Raceway. Despite showing early promise, the weekend would demand every ounce of resilience and determination from the young racer.
Friday’s qualifying session saw Tyler once again deliver under pressure, securing a place in the prestigious SuperPole Shootout for the top six drivers. She lined up on the second row of the grid for Race 1, starting third, an ideal launchpad for a strong points haul.
However, a costly error at the start of the opening race saw her drop down the order, with her position as low as 14th. Undeterred, Tyler mounted a spirited comeback drive, fighting through the midfield chaos to salvage ninth at the flag.
Hopes of redemption in Race 2 were dashed early when a first-lap incident inflicted race-ending damage on her VW Polo, forcing a frustrating DNF and compounding the disappointment of the earlier result.
But in true Tyler Robinson fashion, the final race of the day showcased her trademark grit and composure. Initially caught up in yet another first-lap melee that sent her into the gravel trap, a red flag allowed the Universal Team Red-prepared car to rejoin the race. Restarting from her original position, Tyler put on a solid display of driving to finish second, securing her third podium of the season.
“This weekend tested me like few others have,” said Tyler post-race. “But we never gave up. After the setbacks in Races 1 and 2, to come back and finish on the podium again means everything to me and the team.”
The next round takes competitors to the historic East London Grand Prix Circuit on 19–20 July, where Tyler will be eager to turn momentum into another strong result.
Van Der Merwe Battles Overheating Issues to Secure Solid Zwartkops Points
Dawie van der Merwe delivered a pair of sixth-place finishes at Round 4 of the 2025 SATC SupaCup Championship, held at the tight and technical Zwartkops Raceway on Saturday.
The Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa driver demonstrated grit throughout the weekend despite being hindered by overheating issues that resulted in a noticeable drop in engine performance. The loss of power forced Dawie into a more defensive drive than he would have liked, particularly in Race 2, where he had to work hard to hold position in a tightly bunched midfield pack.
Still, the Mbombela-based racer made the most of the situation, bringing the Fast Developments-prepared Toyota Supa Starlet home safely in sixth in both races.
“We’re making progress at every round,” Dawie said. “We struggled a bit with some overheating, which cost us pace, but we managed to salvage good points. It’s all part of the development process, and a car that still has a few teething issues. We’re learning all the time, but more importantly, we’re improving too.”
While not yet on the pace of the front-runners, the team continues to unlock more from the Supa Starlet package, building valuable data for the second half of the season. Dawie will return for Round 5 of the South African Touring Cars SupaCup when the championship makes its annual stop at the historic East London Grand Prix Circuit .
Eyes Forward: Mikel Bezuidenhout Primed for MSA4 Opener at Zwartkops
The Investchem MSA4 Championship officially gets underway this weekend at Zwartkops Raceway. The highly anticipated national single-seater series enters its first competitive round following a delayed start to the calendar, and Mikel, representing the new Corsa Dei Gemelli outfit, is more than ready to make a statement.
After showcasing promising pace at Kyalami in April and sharpening his racecraft through key karting events since the 17-year-old from Sandton enters Zwartkops well-prepared and fully focused. The 2024 Formula 1600 Rookie of the Year, Mikel is determined to convert his experience and training into a podium-contending performance.
“We’ve been building steadily, on and off track,” said Bezuidenhout. “Zwartkops is tight and technical, which suits my style. We’ve done the prep, now it’s time to go racing.”
Backing Mikel’s campaign are MTN Cosmo-Net and Huawei Mobile South Africa, alongside the strong support of his karting allies at Xtreme Racing. While the championship promises intense competition with some of South Africa’s brightest junior talents on the grid, Mikel’s combination of circuit experience and karting agility make him one to watch.
This weekend will feature official practice sessions on Friday, followed by qualifying and two races on Saturday. With the MSA4 Championship finally taking off, all eyes turn to Zwartkops, where Mikel Bezuidenhout aims to launch his title challenge in style.
Fans can catch all the action trackside with tickets available at the gate on race day. Alternatively, a live stream will be available on race day on the link below for those watching from home.
Bezuidenhout and Spies to Lead Corsa Dei Gemelli into New Era of SA Single-Seaters
After months of anticipation and several frustrating postponements, Corsa Dei Gemelli (CDG) is finally set to make its long-awaited race debut in the inaugural Investchem MSA4 Championship. South Africa’s premier single-seater series roars to life at Zwartkops Raceway this weekend, and the Johannesburg-based outfit is ready to take its place on the grid.
The team enters the 2025 season with a bold vision: to develop South African talent through a professional and well-supported environment. That ambition will be put to the test at the tight and technical Zwartkops circuit, where precision, racecraft, and composure often determine success.
Leading the team’s driver line-up is 17-year-old Mikel Bezuidenhout, the 2024 Formula 1600 Rookie of the Season. Mikel returns to single-seaters brimming with confidence after a successful test program and a strong showing in pre-season preparations. He’ll be joined by Kian Spies, a 21-year-old seasoned karter making his full circuit racing debut. Despite his rookie status, Kian brings a wealth of experience from the highly competitive Senior MAX karting category. Both drivers will aim to deliver strong opening performances, not only to gain valuable points but also to set a marker for the rest of the championship.
Crucial to CDG’s journey into the MSA4 paddock has been the support of its sponsors. The team proudly welcomes Huawei, MTN CosmoNet, and Mix FM 93.8 to its growing family of partners. Their backing has provided the foundation for a competitive campaign, ensuring the team is equipped both on and off the track. From technical infrastructure to media coverage and communications, these partnerships have been instrumental in bringing the CDG vision to life.
Zwartkops Raceway, known for its elevation changes and flowing layout, offers an ideal setting for the MSA4 curtain-raiser. The circuit’s demanding nature will reward driver discipline and mechanical grip, areas where CDG’s meticulous preparation is expected to pay off. For the team, the opening round represents more than just the start of a championship; it’s the launchpad for a new chapter in South African motorsport development.
Fans can look forward to a full day of action on Saturday with tickets available at the gate. Alternatively, fans can watch the action live on Saturday via https://extremefestival.co.za/live/.
With everything in place and the green flag just days away, Corsa dei Gemelli is ready to make its mark.
Heat, Hills and Hard Racing: TGRJA Delivers Grit and Growth
Georgia Lenaerts - Senior MAX
The Toyota Gazoo Racing Junior Academy (TGRJA) showcased its resilience and racecraft at iDube Raceway this past weekend, battling the undulating terrain and technical challenge of the KZN circuit for Round 3 of the 2025 South African Rotax MAX Challenge (SARMC). With national titles and Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals (RMCGF) tickets edging closer, every driver in the academy brought their A-game to the mid-season showdown.
DD2 – Coetzee Dominates, Extends Lead
Jason Coetzee proved once again why he's considered the benchmark in South African DD2 racing this season. After narrowly missing out on the pole position, the Cape Town ace went on to secure two race wins and a third-place finish, extending his championship lead with clinical precision. With three rounds completed, Coetzee remains undefeated in terms of overall round victories and has been victorious in seven of the nine heats so far.
Senior MAX – Points and Positives for Swartz and Lenaerts
Kent Swartz had a weekend to forget, despite demonstrating a strong pace that allowed the former national champion to qualify in second position for Sunday's opening heat. His best result came in that heat, where he finished fourth in a highly competitive Senior MAX field. Unfortunately, the rest of the day ended with two did-not-finish (DNF) results.
Georgia Lenaerts bounced back from a challenging start to her season, claiming fourth overall after scoring two fourth-place finishes and a sixth. Her upward trajectory in the class and championship table continues as she grows more comfortable in the ultra-competitive Senior MAX class.
Junior MAX – Podiums for Dowling, Recovery Drive for Shisinwana
Emma-Rose Dowling put in a stellar performance to claim fourth overall in Junior MAX, highlighted by a brace of podiums. Consistency across the heats kept her within striking distance of the podium, helping her maintain valuable championship momentum heading into the final round.
Teammate Tshepang Shisinwana endured a mixed outing. While his raw speed remained evident, a DNF in the final heat saw the former national champion classified eighth overall for the round. Tshepang, however, continues to adapt well to the demands of the Junior category and is still very much in the fight for a top-five season finish.
Mini MAX – Kaiyamo Twins Fight Hard on Demanding Circuit
Namibian brothers Mandume and Nande Kaiyamo continued their steep learning curve in the Mini MAX class. Mandume delivered three consistent races to finish 11th overall, narrowly missing the top 10. Nande had a tougher outing, finishing 21st for the round, but his determination remains strong as he builds experience at the national level.
Poulter's Perspective
Team Principal Leeroy Poulter praised the weekend's performances: "Jason continues to deliver at an elite level, while Emma and Kent once again showed their class in very tough fields. Tshepang is learning fast, and it was great to see both Georgia and the Kaiyamo twins put in gritty drives. iDube isn't easy, this was a weekend of character building, and that's exactly what the academy is about."
With just one round remaining in the 2025 SARMC championship, the TGRJA enters the business end of the season with confidence and momentum. All eyes now turn to Zwartkops Kart Raceway for the African Open on 4-5 July, where drivers will have another chance to gain entry to the RMCGF in Bahrain.
Boshoff Pushes Title Rival All the Way in iDube Mini MAX Battle
Championship leader Max Boshoff continued his strong 2025 South African Rotax MAX Challenge campaign at iDube Raceway this past weekend with a consistent and composed performance that netted him three podiums in as many heats and a solid second overall for the event.
After qualifying fifth in a field of 22 Mini MAX drivers, Max wasted no time getting to work in Heat 1. He fought hard in the leading group and crossed the finish line in second place before a post-race penalty saw him drop a position. Notably, he set the fastest lap of the race in the process, showing his raw pace at the technical KwaZulu-Natal circuit.
Starting from the pole in Heat 2, Max made a strong getaway and led the opening lap. While title rival Brodi Dowling eventually passed him, the CRG driver held firm to finish second after intense pressure from behind.
The final heat of the day was arguably Max’s finest showing. Having started fifth, the Capetonian was soon up to third and later second, pushing the leader to the flag to finish as runner-up once again. Max showcased his strategic awareness and pace, setting a lap of 47.204s, his personal best of the weekend.
With three podium finishes, Max remains in the hunt for a first national title and had this to say: “This weekend was all about consistency. We didn’t win, but we were in the fight every race and brought home important points. Big thanks to Xtreme Racing Team for the support and to everyone backing me. We’ll come back stronger for Round 4!”
Max will now switch to his Mini ROK as he competes in Round 3 of the ROK Cup South Africa national at Celso Scribante, Gqeberha, from 27-28 June.