A South African initiative with a vision to grow grassroots motorsport across Africa is beginning to attract international attention.
Founded by Wesleigh Orr, Karting Africa was created with a simple goal: to make motorsport more accessible, affordable and inclusive for young people across the continent. The initiative believes that talent can be found in every corner of Africa and that, with the right opportunities, young people can build successful futures in motorsport as drivers, mechanics, officials, engineers and coaches.
Karting Africa is also proudly developing its own African-designed kart chassis, showing that the continent has the ability not only to produce talented competitors, but also to design and build its own motorsport products.
The initiative recently reached an important milestone when Wesleigh Orr was invited to present Karting Africa at the FIA Conference. The opportunity allowed delegates from around the world to see first-hand the work being done to grow grassroots motorsport across Africa and the vision behind the project.
One of the highlights of the conference was Orr’s meeting with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. More than just a handshake, it was a clear sign that African grassroots motorsport is being recognised on the international stage. It reflects the growing support for a movement that is creating opportunities and bringing countries across the continent together through motorsport.
Motorsport South Africa (MSA) has been a proud supporter of Karting Africa and its mission from the beginning.
MSA Chief Executive Officer Vic Maharaj said initiatives such as Karting Africa are essential for the future of the sport.
“Karting Africa is opening doors for young people who may never have imagined a future in motorsport. It is creating opportunities, developing talent and bringing countries across Africa together through a shared passion for racing. We are incredibly proud to support Wesleigh Orr and his team, and it is fantastic to see their work being recognised by the FIA. This is an important moment, not just for Karting Africa, but for African motorsport. It shows that the work being done at grassroots level is making an impact and that Africa has an exciting future in our sport.”
As the initiative continues to grow, so does its vision. Karting Africa is more than a karting programme. It is a movement that is helping shape the future of African motorsport by creating opportunities where they are needed most.
Africa has the talent. Together, we are building the opportunity.
