2025 FIA Karting Academy Trophy: Two categories with the same ambition
Since its creation in 2010, the FIA Karting Academy Trophy has established itself as a unique detection and training programme for young drivers from all over the world. Based on the principles of sporting fairness and accessibility, each year it brings together talented drivers from over 50 nations, all using identical equipment supplied by the FIA in partnership with OTK Kart Group. The continuing commitment of the ASNs (National Sports Authorities), the real pillars of this system, guarantees the representativeness and the standard of the competitors selected to defend the colours of their country. In 2025, the Academy will take a major step forward with the creation of a Senior category, extending the support given to young drivers as they progress to the highest level. At a time when the inclusion of young female drivers is increasing, this mixed competition continues to be an essential gateway to the elite of motor sport, with a list of participants that already includes several Formula 1 stars.
An enriched format: Juniors now alongside Seniors
For its 15th season, the FIA Karting Academy Trophy adopts a new dimension in 2025 with two distinct categories. Alongside the Juniors, aged 12 to 14, the FIA is launching the Senior category, for drivers aged 14 to 16. It's a natural progression, faithful to the values of fairness and training that have made this international competition so famous.
Academy Junior: The solid base remains unchanged
52 drivers representing 51 nations are entered in the Junior category this season. All aged between 12 and 14, they will be racing on OTK one-design karts with Vortex OK-Junior engines and LeCont tyres (Option version). All the driver's equipment will be supplied by OMP, a loyal partner of the programme since 2017.
In 2025, the Junior participants will once again benefit from Formula Medicine's mental and physical preparation programme, reinforcing their overall learning of top-level sport.
2025 Academy Junior calendar
Round 1: 15th to 18th May - Valencia (Spain)
Round 2: 17th to 20th July- Mülsen (Germany)
Round 3: 25th to 28th September - Cremona (Italy)
Academy Senior: The major innovation for 2025
For the first time, the FIA Karting Academy Trophy will feature a Senior category with karts powered by OK-N engines, a new benchmark for young drivers making the transition to the international categories.
36 drivers are registered and will represent 35 nations. The OTK chassis are identical for all, and MAXXIS tyres (Option) will be used in 2025 and 2026. The winner will receive a free entry to the OK-N World Cup with an OTK partner team.
2025 Academy Senior calendar
Round 1: 1st to 4th May - Portimão (Portugal)
Round 2: 5th to 8th June - Viterbo (Italy)
Round 3: 31st July to 3rd August - Rødby (Denmark)
Women's participation on the increase
The 2025 FIA Karting Academy will welcome a total of seven female drivers, four in the Senior category and three in the Junior category. This representation has been made possible thanks to the support of the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission, which allocates specific places each year to young drivers from all over the world.
A strong framework thanks to committed partners
Renewed for a further three seasons, suppliers OTK (karts) and OMP (equipment) are continuing their involvement in this programme, which makes equal opportunities a fundamental principle. Viel Solutions also remains a partner for the fitting out of the paddocks and the reception of participants, ensuring a professional setting for each event.
The FIA Academy: revealing talent
A growing number of drivers who have passed through this training programme are now shining at the highest levels of motor sport, including Charles Leclerc, Esteban Ocon and George Russell. In addition to the experience gained on the track, the young drivers benefit from extensive media exposure, as the Academy Trophy is organised alongside the major events on the FIA Karting calendar.