The 2024 season offers a record number of international competitions, yet we’re already seeing a diversification of certain drivers in several categories, whether FIA Karting or brand cups. Whether in Mini, Junior or Senior, competitors are not hesitating to supplement their main Mini Gr.3, OK-Junior or OK programme with IAME events in preparation for the FIA Karting championships. This was demonstrated by the IAME Winter Cup last weekend in Valencia. The same applies to the teams.
While this is not a complete novelty, it is the current strengthening of this trend that is remarkable in Europe. At a certain level, the drivers seem insatiable. They seem ready to race every weekend, whenever they can afford it. And apparently there are quite a few of them who are not restricted in this respect.
Is it an all-consuming passion that needs to be expressed as often as possible? Is it a necessity to give themselves the maximum chance of competing for the season’s major titles and to satisfy a broader ambition for a future career in motorsport? Do the teams follow this trend or are they behind it? It’s hard to know what is really driving this escalation.
The paradox stems from a complex global situation that is not always encouraging. Overall, the economy is not particularly reassuring these days. Inflation, the energy crisis and environmental threats, geo-political instability, armed clashes, migration problems, questions about the way democracy works, growing disparities – these are just some of the gloomy issues that are constantly making the headlines around the world. Despite all this, top-level karting competition has never been in better health.
The phenomenon extends to motor racing, with Formula 4 and Formula Regional series springing up all over the world this winter. After the start of the year in Asia, the Middle East is taking over with events in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. A large core of drivers is taking part in everything on offer before the start of the European championships. The extension of the F1 calendar to 24 Grand Prix this year sets a new record.
The question arises as to whether it is essential to drive so much to become a champion. It’s often said that real talent doesn’t need to train to excess to be revealed. But does that mean we should minimise the merit of those who work so hard to reach the top? There is probably no definitive answer to this question.
Let’s just hope that it’s not an economic bubble that’s swelling before it implodes, and let’s take advantage of all these races that keep the karting industry alive to indulge our passion for competition.
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