Champions of the Future Academy Program

The Champions of the Future Academy Program is a new global series aiming to increase female participation and inclusion in national and international karting competitions by breaking down the barriers to entry.

To do this, COTFA will include cost control measures, such as a limit on entry fees and a chassis and engine lottery. This will decrease the financial requirements for competitors and ensure that all are competing in equal equipment – allowing them to showcase their talent and abilities.

Through a selection process, F1 ACADEMY will identify the top three female karters in each age category who have showcased the most potential. These nine karters will be supported to participate in the series with an F1 ACADEMY-branded kart and race suit, and receive financial support with entry fees. In addition, F1 ACADEMY will provide the drivers with guidance and development support to maximise their potential alongside promotion and visibility to aid their long-term journey.

HOW DOES THE SERIES WORK?

The series will be comprised of three mixed gender categories, Minis (ages 8-11), Juniors (ages 11-14) and Seniors (ages 14+), will compete in six double-header race weekends, with at least one race taking place outside of Europe.

WHAT ARE ITS GOALS?

Talent identification will be a key focus to help create a pipeline of identified talent amongst young girls aged 8-15, with the goal of entering F1 ACADEMY.

F1 ACADEMY and COTFA will collaboratively identify up and coming talent within karting and look to capture promising drivers who show the skills and traits needed to progress through the junior levels.

WHERE WILL COTFA BE RACING IN 2025?

• Round 1: Kartódromo Internacional Algarve, Portimao, Portugal (February 28 - March 2)
• Round 2: Kartodromo Internacional Lucas Guerrero, Valencia, Spain (April 11-13)
• Round 3: Pista Azzurra, Jesolo, Italy (July 4-6)
• Round 4: Pannónia-Ring Kart Center, Ostffyasszonyfa, Hungary (September 19-21)
• Round 5: Lusail International Karting Circuit, Doha, Qatar (November 24-26)
• Round 6: Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Al Forsan, United Arab Emirates (December 1-3)

For more information on the Champions of the Future Academy and how to get involved, please visit the COTFA website.