Biggest career achievement: Ranking seventh in the South African Nationals without participating in any regionals.

Biggest career disappointment:Breaking down in leg 5 heat 2 and 3 after setting the fastest laps. Also, one of the biggest setbacks wasbeing taken out by a backmarker with two laps to go while leading at Formula K Johannesburg, which prevented me from becoming the first Namibian to win in South Africa.

Can you tell us a bit about your background?

My name is Russell Panduleni Josephat, I am eight years old, and I am a pupil at Delta Primary School.

When did you first start racing go-karts?

I started in 2022 when my uncle Richard Slamet and his son Richie put me in a kart with a rope. I will never forget that moment.

What inspired you to get into go-
karting at such a young age? Was there a moment or person that sparked your interest?

My dad loves Formula 1, and after the Brazilian GP in 2021 where Lewis Hamilton showed exceptional skill, my dad decided to start my go-karting career.

Who is your biggest role model, both in go-karting and outside of it, and why do you look up to them?

In go-karting, my role model is my dad, JP, because he inspires me to do better. Outside of go-karting, I look up to the late President Hage Geingob for his remarkable leadership.

Which professional go-kart or Formula 1 driver do you admire the most, and what do you like about their style?

I admire Lewis Hamilton in Formula 1 for his precision and determination. In karting, I look up to Tshepang Shisinwana, a South African Mini Max champion, for his remarkable skill and never-give-up mindset.

You’ve already won several accolades, what are some of the highlights or moments you’re most proud of in your career so far?

Ranking seventh in the South African Nationals without regional participation. Setting the fastest time and starting on pole at Formula K Johannesburg, even though I was taken out with two laps to go.

Another highlight would be winning leg 6, heat 3 of the Namibian Nationals after starting 3rd and fighting hard to win with two laps to go.

What are some of the challenges you face as a young driver, both on and off the track?

My current class is Bambino, and while my dad ensures I am comfortable, we will need a full-time mechanic next year as we move to Micro Max, which is more complex.

How much time do you spend training and preparing for races? Can you walk us through your preparation process?

My dad pushes me hard, so we aim for 400 to 500 laps before a race. He is also testing various things, which we prefer to keep private.

What is the most difficult part of being a go-kart driver at your age, and how do you overcome those obstacles?

Many Bambino drivers in Namibia want to be in front, but the key is extensive practice, which helps us manage and overcome obstacles.

What are your short-term and long-term goals in go-karting?

We had a ticket to race in Spain this September, but without a sponsor, we couldn’t make the trip. Currently, we are focused on winning the NMSF Namibia Nationals and aim to race more in South Africa for exposure.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I hope to be racing among the best.

Anything you would like to add?

Yes, we are appealing to corporate companies willing to sponsor me to help realise my dreams.