FIA International Karting Commission President Felipe Massa looks back on a successful year for the discipline last year, despite the pandemic, and explains why there’s a huge amount to be excited about in 2021.

As soon as the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, the FIA worked with the Medical Commission headed by Professor Saillant, on an infection-control protocol to guarantee optimal safety for the organisation of the Competitions. The CIK-FIA then used this procedure for the FIA Karting Championships.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made 2020 a particularly difficult year for the entire world, including the motorsport family. Nevertheless, the FIA Karting Championships were able to take place with good sporting representativeness in compliance with health protocols.

Racing in OK in 2020, Lorenzo Patrese has shown real progress in his fourth year in karting. The driver from Padua, who celebrated his 15th birthday in August, now wishes to continue his career in single-seater racing next season.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the FIA Karting Academy Trophy quickly established itself as a cost-effective detection tool for young talents and proven a success both in terms of grid numbers as well producing future stars of motorsport.