A new karting program led by former Ferrari F1 race engineer Rob Smedley is set to shake up American karting this spring. FAT Karting League (FKL) is an innovative, cost conscious series that has been running for over 3 years in the Europe. FKL is launching their first U.S. Try Out sessions in April 2025, with events across Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin and Ohio.

Smedley, best known for his time as an engineer for Felipe Massa at Scuderia Ferrari, founded FKL with one goal: to break down the financial barriers in motorsport and create a real pathway to professional racing.

A Game Changer for Young Racers

Originally launched in the UK, FAT Karting League is an arrive and drive competition, meaning drivers don’t need their own kart or any racing equipment. Everything, including the karts, race suits, helmets, gloves and even coaching is provided.

The program is open for drivers ages between 5-17, offering a structured route for both newcomers and experienced karting talent to develop their skills and compete in real race events.

A Defined Pathway to Formula 4 & the World Cup

Ferdi Porsche – CEO of FAT International, Rob Smedley – CEO of Smedley Group

For competitive karters deciding where to allocate their budget, the real reason to consider FKL is its defined progression system built from their European foundations. The FKL program leads straight to Formula 4. Unlike traditional karting series that require ongoing six figure investment with no guaranteed next step, FKL offers a structured route where skill alone determines advancement.

The top drivers from FKL’s regional and pro championships qualify for a World Cup at the end of the year. There, they will compete against top racers from FKL’s European program, with world champions being named at each age group, and the Junior driver securing a fully funded Forumla 4 season. This is a rare and legitimate opportunity to break into professional motorsport without the traditional financial burden.

Affordable Racing Without Compromising Competition

Traditional karting can cost well over $250,000 per season when factoring in equipment, travel and technical support. FKL slashes that by over 90%, offering a full championship season from $4,000.

All karts are prepared to spec by a team led by Smedley, ensuring driver skill, not money, determine performance. The league focuses on pure racing ability, eliminating the mechanical and financial advantages typically seen in junior motorsport.

Try-Out Sessions: First Step on the Ladder

Every driver entering the FKL system begins with a Try-Out Session—a half-day program that includes track time, structured coaching, and driver assessments. The sessions serve both as an introduction to competitive karting and as a placement tool for FKL’s ongoing training and race programs.

Spring 2025 Try-Out dates include:

• April 12 & 19 – New Castle Motorsports Park – New Castle, Indiana
• April 20 & 27 – Kart Circuit Autobahn – Joliet, Illinois
• April 26 – Norway Motorsports Park – Sheridan, Illinois
• May 3 & 4 – G&J Kartway – Camden, Ohio

Drivers are evaluated on key skills such as kart control, awareness, and consistency. Those who complete the Try-Out may be invited to join one of two championship categories: Regional or Pro.

Why Parents Love FKL

The focus of the FAT Karting League is on the drivers

Since its launch in the U.K., FAT Karting League has gained traction with families looking for a safe, structured entry into motorsport. The arrive-and-drive model, combined with comprehensive coaching and standardized equipment, has helped the league attract a wide range of participants, from complete beginners to indoor karting veterans.

More Information & Booking

FKL’s Midwest Try-Outs begin in mid-April. Spots are limited and pre-registration is required. For more details or to reserve a session, visit https://join.fat-kartingleague.com/us-hub-1/

New drivers can receive $50 off their first Try-Out by using code MK-EKARTING before March 31.

Free Webinar

Join F1 legend & FAT Karting League CEO Rob Smedley for an exclusive 30-minute live webinar, where he’ll reveal:

→ The new US karting league for kids aged 5–17

→ How young drivers can progress from Try-Outs to a fully funded Formula 4 seat

→ Live Q&A—ask Rob anything about the league & motorsport

Date: 26 March 2025

Time: 17:00 EDT

Online | Free to Attend

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