Formula 1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone has demonstrated his commitment to helping young British drivers aiming to follow in the footsteps of current world champion Lewis Hamilton, by launching a new UK-based karting series, Formula Kart Stars (FKS) – which could support European grands prix in the future.
With the endorsement of Ecclestone and the patronage of Hamilton, Formula 1’s youngest-ever title-winner, it is hoped that FKS will provide a road from karting all the way up to the very pinnacle of international motorsport through its dual focus on racing and education. Even more notably still, from 2010 onwards the championship may form part of the support programme for European and international grands prix.
The deal is also set to include a new logo, television origination coverage on non grand-prix weekends and links from its own website (www.formulakartstars.com) to the official Formula 1 site. FKS director Carolynn Hoy – who has watched Hamilton in action from a young age – was full of enthusiasm about the potential of the new championship to unearth other young British talents who she hopes may go on to emulate the 24-year-old’s staggering achievements.
“It’s very exciting news,” she stated. “Bernie backing the championship is absolutely fantastic. In 2010 Formula Kart Stars may be supporting the European grands prix, and from 2011 onwards could even support international grands prix all around the world. It gets better, too, because Bernie will also be providing special prizes that really can’t be bought – maybe even an invitation to take part in the pit walk ahead of grands prix.”
Britain’s newest sporting superstar Hamilton – who himself cut his teeth in karting, triumphing in the cadet class of McLaren-Mercedes Champions of the Future back in 1996, what would prove to be the catalyst for his meeting with McLaren team principal Ron Dennis – is similarly excited about the venture.
“Racing was the most important thing for me as a kid, and what I really focussed on,” explained the nine-time grand prix winner. “I enjoyed my time in karting massively and, more importantly, learnt a huge amount. This is the real grass roots of the sport, and gives kids an opportunity to compete and develop as drivers, and also to get a full understanding of the dedication that is required. Hopefully I can give them some good advice, the most important of which is not to neglect their education in their drive to succeed in motorsport. It’s all about keeping pushing and continually trying to be the best in every way.”
Info FKS / © Photo KSP – Chris Walker