kartning

Karting is a form of motorsport that uses small, open-wheeled vehicles known as go-karts. Races are held on purpose-built circuits called kart tracks, which range from local short tracks to international venues. The sport is widely regarded as a gateway to higher levels of racing because it teaches fundamental skills such as braking, steering, throttle control, and racecraft at a relatively lower cost and with broad age eligibility.

Origins and development can be traced to the United States in the mid-1950s, when hobbyists built simple, engine-powered carts for fun. The idea rapidly spread, leading to organized clubs, standardized chassis and engines, and the creation of dedicated tracks. Today karting is governed by national bodies that often coordinate with the FIA through the FIA Karting commission, and it features international championships alongside numerous national and regional events.

Vehicles and formats vary by class. Modern karts are lightweight chassis with the engine mounted at the rear and typically operate without suspension. Engines range from small-displacement two-stroke or four-stroke units to larger and, in some electric classes, electric power. Most entry-level and club competition karts are direct-drive with a fixed gear, while higher-performance "shifter" classes use sequential gearbox and more complex drivetrains. Races are conducted in age-based and skill-based categories, such as cadet, junior, senior, and masters, with classes differentiated by power, weight, and equipment.

Safety and development are central to karting. Competitors wear helmets, suits, gloves, and other protective gear, and tracks enforce marshal systems and safety protocols. Many professional racers begin in karting, using it to develop racing technique, track awareness, and strategic experience before transitioning to car racing.