Motorsport UK caught up with Laith Khan as he was gearing up to compete in the British Championships this year. From starting out in Bambino class, to being one of the youngest on the grid for Senior IAME X30, Laith has been putting in the practice as he continues on his motorsport journey…

What age did you start karting, and what made you decide to give it a go?

I first went karting for my fifth birthday, my parents took me along – they didn’t know anything about motorsport! But after some research they took me along to Rye House and I drove the small electric karts and I fell in love with it. I then started racing in local championships and moved onto Bambino class in the British championship.

Which famous drivers inspired you to choose karting over a different sport?

I’d have to say Lewis Hamilton, he’s British, he wasn’t from a wealthy background and he is black so seeing him and seeing him win so many titles and be so successful at Formula 1 made me feel that it was realistic and possible. I can make it. He really inspired me.

Other drivers who have inspired me are Enaam Ahmed who was a British Karting Champion who competed in Formula 2 and also Arvid Lindblad, he’s currently in Formula 2. They both come from a British Asian background and I used to watch them on the track, especially Arvid, and it made me think it was possible.

What does a typical race day look like for you? Do you have a preferred breakfast?

You have to start preparing for race day a couple of days before, my mum helps me pack, organising hotels, organising travel and bits with the team… On race day, I wouldn’t recommend this, but I normally have a cup cake for breakfast! As a treat. I love Indian food so I usually have that for lunch.

I always pray before I go out on track.

How do you prepare for a training session during Ramadan, do you have any tips for other practicing Muslim drivers?

During Ramadan I wouldn’t fast if I am racing as it’s a physical activity. Fasting during the week does make you tired and fatigued so you need to make sure that you eat really well and have some protein and carbs for breakfast to have energy during the day.

Congratulations on reaching the grid for the Senior IAME X30, what are your hopes for the British Championship?

My hopes for this year are to improve and learn as much as I can from the older, more experienced drivers. Everyone that I am racing with are European and British champions as well as being older than me, I am probably the youngest on the grid, and I want to focus on making myself a better driver. I want to work hard and get ready for next year.

Do you have any advice or tips for anyone considering getting into karting?

Be prepared to make sacrifices, it is very tough, but keep working at it and be dedicated.