The Board of Karting Australia has confirmed the appointment of Maxxis and Vega as the tyre suppliers for Karting Australia sanctioned competition from January 1, 2027, through to December 31, 2031.
This outcome follows an extensive tender and evaluation process undertaken over the past 18 months by Karting Australia management and directors.
The tender attracted 35 submissions representing five tyre brands, with each proposal undergoing detailed technical and performance assessment. The review process included analysis of technical specifications, manufacturer data, durability information and supporting test results, along with formal presentations and additional submissions from manufacturer representatives.
Track testing formed a key component of the evaluation process and was conducted in two phases.
The first phase was led by the manufacturers to allow them the opportunity to assess performance and suitability of their various tyres across a range of Australian circuits and conditions.
The second phase involved independent on-track testing using identical karts prepared to factory specifications and operated at the tyre manufacturers’ recommended pressures. Overseen by Karting Australia Chief Operating Officer Lee Hanatschek, the testing program included multiple days of evaluation on different circuits, with tyres run beyond the minimum durability requirements to assess consistency, longevity and overall suitability for the relevant class groups.
Following completion of the review process, the following tyres have been approved for use in Karting Australia competition from January 1, 2027.
MAXXIS
Distributed for Karting Australia competition by St George Karts, Maxxis tyres have been popular with Cadet drivers since the introduction of the Maxxis KA-Cadet at the start of 2022. This tyre continues to be considered as the best suited tyre for the class during this tender process.
The Maxxis RED MAO – the universal first choice of the test drivers, tyre showed superior consistency and durability for the Group 2 categories throughout the testing while providing a very suitable level of grip for competitors.
For the past three years, the Maxxis Sport has been the tyre of choice in the 4SS category with a good mix of grip and wear rate suitable for the category – a trend that will continue for the upcoming five years.
VEGA
The Vega tyre brand is synonymous with high level and high performance karting competition across the world and is one of the world’s oldest karting tyre manufacturers have been manufacturing kart tyres since 1980. The KA-H and KA-M tyres have been developed by Vega technicians to suit Australian tracks and conditions. Vega tyres will be distributed across the country by the OTK Kart Group Australia.
QUOTES
KARTING AUSTRALIA – Kelvin O’Reilly, Chief Executive Officer
“As an organisation, we are pleased to confirm Maxxis and Vega as the tyre suppliers for Karting Australia sanctioned competition for the next five-year tender period.
“The level of interest and professionalism shown by all the tendering companies throughout the tender process was extremely high, with multiple internationally recognised brands submitting detailed proposals and some of the world’s best kart tyres for evaluation. The process involved extensive technical assessment, objective data analysis and on-track testing to ensure the selected tyres best suit Australian karting conditions and the long-term interests of our competitors.
“Maxxis demonstrated excellent performance, consistency and durability across a number of categories. The Maxxis KA-Cadet tyre has proven itself since its introduction in 2022, while the RED MAO tyre delivered outstanding consistency and wear characteristics throughout the Group 2 testing program. The Maxxis Sport tyre has also continued to provide a very strong package for the 4SS categories.
“Vega brings enormous international pedigree to Australian karting. Their commitment to developing the KA-H and KA-M tyres specifically for Australian circuits and conditions has to be seen as a major factor in their success. Combined with the support structure provided by OTK Kart Group Australia, we are confident the Vega package will be very well received across the sport.
“The objective throughout the tender process was to identify tyres that deliver the right balance of performance, durability, consistency and value for competitors. Based on the extensive testing and analysis, we believe the selected tyre package provides a strong platform for Karting Australia competition over the next five years.”
“I would like to thank all the tendering companies for making our decisions for the next period so difficult.
“I would also like to acknowledge LeCont and Patrizicorse for the supply of our current Junior and Senior two-stroke tyres. They have done a fantastic job for Australian karting and have made a valuable contribution to our competitions over the last four and a half years. While they have not been successful on this occasion, they remain highly regarded within our sport. Like all good companies, I am sure they will embrace the next opportunity to work with us again when it arises.”
ST GEORGE KARTS – Chris Dell, Managing Director
“I am very pleased to be continuing our work with two outstanding organisations — Karting Australia and Maxxis Kart Tyres.
“Karting Australia has been an exceptional organisation to work with throughout this process. The tender process was thorough, detailed and rigorous, demonstrating their commitment to securing the best possible tyre package for Australian karting. It is a great honour to have our tyres selected once again.
“I would also like to thank Maxxis for their continued investment in development, together with their ability to consistently deliver a reliable and stable supply programme. Over the past five years they have performed exceptionally well, and we look forward to continuing this successful relationship into the future.”
MAXXIS TYRES – Phil Chen, Race Department
“Maxxis extends its sincere appreciation to Karting Australia for the trust and strong partnership developed over the past five years. We are proud to continue this collaboration into a new five-year term.
“Building on this solid foundation, both parties are committed to elevating the partnership to new heights. We are also delighted to expand our involvement by supplying tyres to an additional key racing category, which represents the largest segment within Australian karting, further strengthening our presence in the sport.
“Maxxis Racing Department will continue to invest in research and development for racing tyres, delivering consistent quality, outstanding performance, and reliable products to support drivers across all levels of competition.”
OTK KART GROUP AUSTRALIA – Troy Hunt, Managing Director
“I am incredibly proud of the effort Vega has put into developing a tyre specifically for Australian conditions. Australia represents one of the largest national-level karting competitions in the world, making it a critically important market for Vega.
“This development is a significant step forward for our sport, and we’re excited to continue supporting the growth and success of karting across the country.”
VEGA S.r.l – Paolo Mantese, Chief Executive Officer
“Today marks a moment of great pride for all of us at VEGA and the OTK Kart Group as we celebrate being awarded this important tyre tender with Karting Australia.
“This achievement represents far more than commercial success — it is a strong endorsement of our expertise, the quality of our products, and the dedication our team brings every day to supporting our partners and the sport.
“I would like to sincerely thank everyone who contributed to this outcome. The preparation behind this proposal demanded commitment, collaboration, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the needs of Australian karting. Every individual involved has played a vital role in reaching this milestone.
“We are especially proud of the trust placed in us by Karting Australia. With Australia being one of the largest and most competitive national karting landscapes in the world, this opportunity carries both significance and responsibility. We are excited to work closely with the KA Federation as true partners, bringing energy, professionalism, and determination to further strengthen and grow the sport across the country.
“This new partnership reflects the strength of our vision and our ability to deliver innovative, reliable solutions in a competitive global environment.
“Most importantly, it highlights what can be achieved through teamwork, shared ambition, and a constant drive to improve.”
