Two UAE drivers are competing at the pioneering Malaysian event, with Zain Elhommosany hoping to continue his strong form after winning the Nations Cup in Qatar.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has underlined that today’s launch of the FIA Karting Arrive and Drive World Cup represents a major step forward in making karting more accessible by lowering financial and technical hurdles, ultimately aiming to broaden global involvement in the sport.
The much-anticipated World Cup officially begins this weekend, debuting with junior and senior categories at the LYL International Circuit in Malaysia, the largest karting venue in Asia.
Across three days of competition in Kuala Lumpur, 107 drivers from 50 nations will compete using uniform karts supplied by OTK Group. The roster includes 15 female competitors – the largest number ever featured in an FIA Karting competition.
Representing the UAE are Aaryan Singh in the Junior division and Zain Elhommosany in the Senior field, arriving off the back of his recent success at the MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup in Qatar.
A key element of the event is driver development, with FIA workshops held ahead of the on-track action. These sessions covered vital topics such as safety, nutrition, anti-doping practices, media coaching, and insights into the FIA International Karting Ranking system, supporting competitors in their growth both inside and outside the cockpit.
FIA President Ben Sulayem, said: “The debut FIA Karting Arrive and Drive World Cup marks an exciting new chapter for grassroots motorsport across the world. Thank you to our FIA Member Clubs who have entered, and to President Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir, MAM, and the Government of Malaysia for hosting this landmark event.
“The support for this new format has been incredible, and it shows our global commitment to increasing accessibility, growing motorsport participation, and empowering the next generation of talent.”
Hon. Hannah Yeoh, Minister of Youth and Sports – Federal Government of Malaysia: “We are proud to host this landmark event in Malaysia, highlighting our commitment to strengthening motorsport development in the country. Thank you to the FIA for this collaboration.”
FIA Karting Commission President, Akbar Ebrahim, said: “The FIA Karting Arrive and Drive World Cup is more than just a race – it will be an opportunity for promising racing talent from across the world to prove their racecraft and develop as well-rounded drivers at the start of their careers.
“As the flagship Arrive and Drive event on the karting calendar, all eyes will be on Malaysia this month as we showcase accessible, affordable motor sport which puts the drivers centre stage.”
The action is live and free to watch on YouTube at: http://www.youtube.com/@fiakartingchampionship9818
