Applications are now open for the Kart Academy and Rally Academy programmes, offering talented young drivers and co-drivers the opportunity to develop their skills and take the next steps in their motorsport journey through the new BRDC Driver Academy powered by Motorsport UK.
The new Academy brings together the experience and expertise of the Motorsport UK Academy, which has supported talent development across motorsport disciplines for more than 20 years, with the British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC) Rising Stars and SuperStars programmes.
Together, they provide a development pathway for promising young drivers and co-drivers, combining technical training with wider support to help participants develop both on and off the track.
Applications are now being accepted for the Kart Academy, open to drivers aged 12 to 16, and the Rally Academy, open to drivers and co-drivers aged 15 to 28.
Both programmes are designed to support young competitors who demonstrate commitment, determination and a willingness to learn, helping them build the skills, knowledge and confidence to progress in motorsport.
What do the programmes offer?
The Kart Academy is a one-year programme developed for talented young drivers currently competing in UK karting who are showing the potential to progress further in the sport.
The Rally Academy also runs for one year and works in partnership with M-Sport, providing development opportunities for aspiring rally drivers and co-drivers. The programme covers areas including pace note preparation, reconnaissance and service scheduling.
Both programmes combine discipline-specific workshops, online sessions, one-to-one support and specialist guidance, with development extending beyond driving skills to include psychology, management, nutrition, engineering, sponsorship and physical fitness.
The wider Academy pathway also includes the Girls’ Karting Academy, supporting girls aged 8 to 15 who are getting involved in indoor karting, and the Enhanced Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE), a full-time education and development pathway for young motorsport athletes.
Developing the next generation of motorsport talent
At the higher level of the talent pathway, the Motorsport UK Race Academy and High Performance programmes have been brought together with the BRDC Rising Stars and SuperStars programmes.
The newly refined programmes will support high performing athletes and be led by former racing driver Andy Meyrick, who has been BRDC SuperStars Programme Director since 2019.
Entry to both programmes is by invitation only, with athletes identified by BRDC Driver Academy Talent Scouts. Those selected will be contacted directly.
Across the Academy, participants will have free access to industry experts, performance coaches and partners, helping them develop the three core elements of driver success: technical skills, holistic athlete development and high-performance values.
Apply for 2027
Applications for the Kart Academy and Rally Academy close at 5:00pm on Wednesday 25th November 2026.
Find out more and apply for the Kart Academy or Rally Academy