Introduction

Motorsport UK has now released its official 2026 Karting Yearbook, outlining the technical and sporting framework for competitive karting across the UK. The 2026 edition includes significant updates, new classes and structural changes that affect both club and national level competitors.

Main Changes from 2025 to 2026

Compared to the 2025 season, the 2026 Motorsport UK karting regulations introduce several key changes:

• Full Re-Homologation: All kart classes undergo technical re-homologation for 2026, with updated regulations highlighted in the official Yearbook.
• Electric Karting Introduced: Electric Cadet and Bambino classes are now formally added, reflecting the sport’s move toward sustainability.
• New Class Additions: The Tillotson T4 Junior & Senior classes are now recognised and included.
• Technical Adjustments: Key technical rules (e.g. component specifications, weights, engine controls) are updated and marked in red in the new Yearbook.
• Alignment with FIA Developments: Some updates follow FIA karting direction for 2026, particularly in safety and electronic systems.

Below is a full breakdown of the official Motorsport UK karting class structure for the 2026 season.

Motorsport UK 2026 Class Overview

The Motorsport UK Yearbook outlines all permitted competition categories for the 2026 season. These span from entry-level Bambino classes to full performance gearbox categories. Please note: not all clubs will run every class; check local supplementary regs.

Bambino (Ages 6–8)

• MightE Bambino
• Comer Bambino*

Cadet (Ages 8–12)

• IAME Gazelle*
• IAME Water Swift (Restricted)
• Honda Cadet
• Honda GX160 Cadet*
• Rotax Micro Cadet
• Rotax E10 Cadet (Electric)
• MightE Cadet (Electric)
• Tillotson Cadet*

Inter (Ages 10–13)

• IAME Water Swift
• Rotax Inter
• Tillotson Inter*

Junior (Ages 12–16)

• IAME X30 Junior
• Rotax Junior Max
• Formula Libre Junior*
• Tillotson Junior*

Senior Non-Gearbox (Ages 15+)

• IAME X30 Senior
• Rotax Senior Max
• TKM Extreme
• Formula Libre*
• Tillotson Senior*

Gearbox Classes

Junior Gearbox (Ages 13–17)

• Junior Gearbox*

Senior Gearbox (Ages 15+)

• 125 Open*
• 210 National*
• Superkart 250
• 450 4-Stroke*
• KZ2

*Classes marked with an asterisk are governed under specific Technical Exception documents and may not be offered at all clubs.

What These Changes Mean for Competitors

• Electric Opportunity: The introduction of electric Cadet and Bambino pathways opens new development routes for younger drivers.
• Clearer Progression Ladder: Age-tiered structure (Bambino → Cadet → Inter → Junior → Senior) gives drivers a predictable competitive journey.
• Flexibility at Club Level: Technical Exception (KTE) classes allow clubs to tailor grids based on local participation.
• Performance Variety: The coexistence of non-gearbox and gearbox categories supports both mainstream and high-performance karting.

Conclusion

The 2026 Motorsport UK Yearbook reflects both stability and innovation. While foundational class structures remain consistent with 2025, the introduction of electric platforms and class re-homologation shows the sport adapting to future technology and safety demands.

Whether you're starting a Bambino career or competing at gearbox level, the 2026 season offers one of the most diverse and inclusive karting environments seen in the UK to date.