Liam Carr and Oskar Hennock are set to fly the Australian flag on the world stage in 2026. (Pic: Pace Images)
Australia’s two representatives in the FIA Karting Academy Trophy – Senior and Junior – have been confirmed, with Liam Carr and Oskar Hennock set to fly the Australian flag on the world stage in 2026.
The FIA Karting Academy Trophy is a unique, one-make international competition designed to identify and develop the world’s most promising young drivers. Featuring competitors from more than 50 countries, the Trophy brings together the best emerging talent from each nation to compete on equal terms using identical equipment. With machinery prepared and maintained by the OTK Kart Group, the focus is placed purely on driver performance, racecraft, and consistency.
Since its inception, the Academy Trophy has proven to be a vital pathway to the upper levels of motorsport, with several graduates progressing to the pinnacle of the sport. Current Formula 1 drivers including Charles Leclerc, George Russell and Esteban Ocon all honed their skills through the program, underlining the calibre of competition Carr and Hennock will face in 2026.
Carr, the reigning Australian KA2 Champion, will step up to the Senior category, which kicks off in Spain on the second weekend in May. Meanwhile, Gold Coaster Hennock will take on the Junior Trophy, beginning his campaign in Belgium just two weeks later across a three-round series.
“The Academy Trophy is a great way for young drivers to gain experience while racing on the European stage and we’re delighted to have Liam and Oskar as out representatives in the Senior and Junior Academy Trophy respectively,” said Karting Australia CEO O’Reilly.
“Over the years we’ve had some great ambassadors for Australia compete in the Series with Max Walton recording the highest place by an Australian in the runner-up placing a couple of years ago. We are confident Liam and Oskar will represent Australia with pride, professionalism, and determination and look forward to them gaining the most out of the experience.”
The Senior Academy Trophy will be contested across three rounds, commencing in Spain before heading to Italy mid-year and concluding in Germany later in the season. The Junior Trophy also features a three-round calendar, beginning in Belgium, followed by a second event in Italy, before the final round takes place in Germany.
