Kenzo Craigie, Honda Cadet Vice-Champion in the 2022 Wera Tools British Kart Championship, has joined the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team’s Junior Programme.

Throughout last year, Craigie was one of the dominant drivers in the Honda Cadet class, securing the runner-up spot in the Wera Tools BKC with two podium finishes along the way – P1 in Event 9 at Clay Pigeon (where he was voted Driver of the Day across all classes), and P3 in Event 12 at Whilton Mill.

Craigie also won the British Kartmasters Honda Cadet ‘GP’ Plate and the BKC Honda Academy ‘O’ Plate.

He was awarded the prestigious Mark Hines Memorial Trophy at the 2023 Wera Tools British Karting Awards for his efforts last season and has already picked up silverware on the track this year too, winning the TVKC Icebreaker Cup in the Water Swift class in January.

Born in Epsom, Surrey, Craigie will make the step up to the Junior Class for 2023, competing in the UK as well as internationally in the Rotax and IAME classes, with the support of Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team.

The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team’s Junior Programme, established in 2016, carries on Mercedes-Benz’ legacy of identifying and supporting young drivers.

Dan Parker, Motorsport UK Karting Manager, commented, “We would like to offer huge congratulations to Kenzo and his family following his selection to the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team’s Junior Programme.

“Kenzo started karting at Daytona Sandown Park and quickly rose through the ranks. He has been outstanding over the past couple of seasons, winning multiple titles using various types of equipment – which is the sign of not only a very fast driver but also an adaptable one, exactly what is required in today’s sport.

“We are proud to have been a small part of Kenzo’s journey so far and we will look forward to watching his progress this year in the Junior category.”

Find out more about the Wera Tools British Kart Championships here.