The spotlight of African karting is set to shine brightly on South Africa as the nation prepares to host the inaugural African Karting Cup (AKC) from February 15 to 17, 2024. The high-octane event will take place at the Formula-K Kart circuit in Benoni, drawing participation from over 15 African countries, including Angola, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
The organizers have confirmed that 40 of the finest karting talents from across the African continent will compete in this historic event. Cindy Van Der Laan, the promoter of Rok Cup South Africa, revealed that the AKC will provide OK-N competitors with an opportunity to secure a coveted seat at the 2024 FIA OK-N Karting World Cup or an equivalent competition.
Van Der Laan expressed her enthusiasm for the AKC, emphasizing its unique features and thrilling nature. “The African Karting Cup will be a real nail-biter. For the first time in Africa, we will be showcasing two classes, OK-N and OK-J, using an ‘arrive and drive’ format. We are also excited to announce the introduction of a mini Rok invitational,” she stated.
What sets the AKC apart is its distinctive format. The event features two classes: OK-J and OK-N, with a total of 40 competitors, along with the addition of the Mini Rok invitational event. Notably, it employs an ‘arrive and drive’ race format, where all 20 competitors in each class—OK-J and OK-N—utilize the same OTK chassis brand and Vortex pool engines, drawn randomly. This approach levels the playing field and allows the most talented racers to showcase their skills.
Adding an element of surprise and excitement, the track layout will remain a closely guarded secret until Thursday, February 15th.
Karting serves as the foundation of motorsport and the initial platform for young talents to nurture their skills in the world of motorsports. South Africa takes pride in its pool of skilled karting talents who actively participate at the FIA level in Europe. Renowned names include Ethan Lennon, Enzo Rujugiro, Luviwe Sambudla, and Nikolas Roos.
Adrian Scholtz, the Chief Executive Officer of Motorsport South Africa, underscored the significance of karting in nurturing motorsport talent. He highlighted that numerous drivers who have ascended to the pinnacle of motorsport began their careers in karting. “Karting in South Africa produces some exceptional talent,” Scholtz affirmed, mentioning notable names like Kelvin van der Linde, Sheldon van der Linde, and Jordan Pepper.
Scholtz further recognized recent karting sensations who have launched their international careers and are making waves globally. These include Jarrod Waberski, Leyton Fourie, and Kwanda Mokoena. South Africa will be represented in the OK-N class by Muhammad Wally, Niko Zafiris, and Mikel Bezuidenhout, while the OK-J class will feature competitors such as Sebastian Dias, Wian Boshoff, and William Marshall.
Noteworthy African participants to watch in the OK-J class include Zaydaan Savania from Zimbabwe, along with David Ivan Andrianjafy, Matheo Rajomarison, and Andi Nathan Rajoelison from Madagascar. In the OK-N class, standouts include Jaedon Masiyanise from Zimbabwe, Jacobus van Dyk and Darius Kotze from Namibia, Martin Thyyge Noeigaard and Krrish Vadgama from Kenya, and Roy-Bako Baurch from Nigeria, among others.
Following the AKC, the winners of the OK-N class will advance to Europe for the prestigious FIA Karting World Cup, while OK-J class victors will secure automatic qualification for the 2025 African Karting Cup. Additionally, the champion of the Mini Rok invitational will earn a qualified drive for the prestigious Super Final scheduled for October in Italy.
In conclusion, Cindy Van Der Laan underlined the pivotal role of karting as the starting point for aspiring motorsport enthusiasts, emphasizing that the AKC presents an ideal platform to discover the immense talent that the African continent possesses.
As the countdown to the inaugural African Karting Cup begins, motorsport enthusiasts and karting fans eagerly anticipate an electrifying showcase of skill, speed, and determination. The AKC not only promises thrilling competition but also provides a glimpse into the future of motorsport in Africa, where karting serves as the launch pad for promising careers on the international stage.
