Preparations Begin for Establishment of "Karting Association of Japan, Inc. ～The Japan Karting Association is a non-profit organization that aims to pass on a healthy motorsports culture to the future through karting.

We are pleased to announce that we have begun preparations to establish the Japan Karting Association (JKA), a general incorporated association, with the aim of passing on a healthy motorsports culture to the future through the popularization and promotion of karting.

■Purpose and Vision of Establishment

JKA's vision is to "pass on a healthy motorsports culture to the future through karting," and to promote an environment where children can pursue their dreams, take on challenges, and grow.

In particular, we will focus on developing the next generation of racing drivers and excellent competition support personnel (coaches, referees, officials, etc.), and contribute broadly to the revitalization of the industry as a whole.

In the future, we aim to create a virtuous cycle model of development that leads to the future by building a cooperative system that leverages the strengths of each sector, including regions, manufacturers, educational institutions, and local governments, and by mobilizing the collective power of Japan.

Furthermore, as an activity to expand the scope of karting, we will promote the creation of an environment in which anyone can casually experience karting through hands-on events and regional cooperation, and establish a culture in which everyone from children to adults can become familiar with motorsports.

Appointment of Representative Director

Professional racing driver Naoki Yamamoto will assume the position of Representative Director.

＜Naotaka Yamamoto, Representative Director

My name is Naoki Yamamoto, and I am pleased to take on the role of Representative Director of the Japan Karting Association.

I myself started karting at the age of 6, have experienced domestic and international championships, and have grown up within the existing training system. Now, I am able to continue racing in the top category because of the support and environment provided by many people.

With the newly launched Japan Karting Association, we hope to provide clear steps for young karters to challenge not only domestically but also on the world stage. We also aim to make karting the "starting point" of motorsports, familiar to more and more people, and rooted in society as a sport.

In addition to training karting drivers, we will do our utmost to broaden the scope of karting so that those who want to start karting and those who enjoy karting as a hobby can learn more about the appeal of karting.

Inheriting the thoughts of our predecessors who have built up motorsports in Japan, we hope to work hand in hand with everyone in the industry to develop, little by little, a system that is appropriate for the next era.

Although this is just a small step, we will strive to make it a great hope for the children who will be responsible for the future. We would appreciate your warm support and cooperation.

Scheduled to hold the "JKA Summer Training Camp for Potential Athletes in 2025

JKA plans to hold the "JKA Summer Training Camp for Potential Karting Athletes in 2025" with the aim of discovering and training the next generation of karting athletes.

Dates: August 18 (Mon.) - 20 (Wed.), 2025

Venue: Auto Paradise Gotemba

Target: Cadet class (players aiming to compete in the Junior Championships)

The athletes who are recognized as particularly outstanding at this camp will receive support from JKA for their activities in the 2026 season.

Details will be announced in the future.

The official establishment of the Japan Kart Association will be announced shortly.