Hilma Nalupe
Nine-year-old Russell Josephat continues to make waves in Namibia’s motorsport scene after clinching the sixth and final leg of the Namibian Karting Championship in the Micro Max category, held last weekend at the Tony Rust Racetrack.
Starting the sport at just five years old, Russell has developed into one of the country’s most promising young talents. His victory last weekend earned him his second straight national title, making him a two-time Namibian National Karting Champion after winning all six rounds of the 2025 season in the Micro Max class.
For Russell, racing is not just a sport; it’s a passion. “I feel good to win and it’s special to win all my races in my class for 2025. I am grateful to everyone who assisted me, from Uncle Jack, Uncle Calvin, the Stretto Team, my mentor Uncle Charl, and most importantly, my dad, for always supporting and pushing me. I also want to thank my sponsors at MTC for believing in me,” he said proudly after the race.
Although he also enjoys football, Russell admits that go-karting is his true passion. He vividly recalls his first race in Swakopmund and says the excitement of being on the track has never left him.
“It felt awesome. I like the sport because of the adrenaline you feel when driving a go-kart,” he said. Behind his success stands his father, JP Josephat, who has guided him every step of the way. “I had a huge interest in motorsport, and because I couldn’t do it, I saw the need to instil it into him. Both financial and emotional aspects have taken a toll on the family, but seeing his progress makes it all worth it,” JP explained. The family’s dedication goes beyond race days. Between school, training and travel, Russell’s routine is tightly managed to balance his education and racing career. His father said it is not always easy, but discipline has become a key value in their home.
The Josephats are considering moving Russell up to the Mini Max class next season, a decision they are taking one step at a time. For now, Russell is enjoying his well-earned victory, proving that age is no barrier when passion meets purpose.
At just nine years old, Namibia’s young champion is already racing his way into history, and the finish line is only the beginning.