“The top level is not too bad!”
An important figure for decades in karting, Dino Chiesa accompanied the success of Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg , and more recently Nyck De Vries. With his team Callum Ilott became European Champion of KF in 2014. He is known for his advice and discipline.
How is karting in 2014?
– High-level international karting is not doing too badly! I believe that we should not try to change everything, just try to improve some points. I’m not sure that we should reduce budgets at all costs. The highest level will always be expensive, there is nothing to do about it. And again, it is relatively reasonable in relation to car series’ like Formula Renault 2.0 and Formula 3.
How do you assess the current standard of drivers?
– There are some very good young drivers in KF. We have seen that the European Champions and World Champions were very young this year. There used to be more confrontations between young drivers and professionals who are all in KZ, unfortunately. The problem is that we are trying to keep drivers in karting and the FIA at the same time allows them to leave earlier and earlier for cars. I’m happy for Max Verstappen that he can quickly move into Formula 1, but his example is not good for karting in general. Max is a special case. Many drivers leave karting after KF-Junior to go to cars. It’s not good for them.
In which direction should karting evolve?
– I have no answer to this complex issue. I think we should keep a very open mind and consider all directions available. We always talk about it being too costly, especially about the KF engines. But at the same time, the KZ categories are doing well in International, National and even Regionally in many countries. But the KZ equipment is expensive! The power seems to attract drivers, so why not go in that direction? I think we need to stand out from the single-brand challenges, which is what the KF engine failed at. I do not think that we can now really go back now. We cannot fight against technological change. Every day shows us the evidence. International paddocks have become very professional, high-level karting is expensive, that’s how it is. We can try to slightly decrease some expenses, but that’s it. Broadening the base of competitors in all countries is another issue that requires other solutions. It is important to listen to enthusiasts and offer attractive categories. Drivers must find maximum satisfaction in their sport, and it’s what will make their numbers grow!
CIK-FIA Best of 2014 / © Photo KSP