Carlos Sainz opens registrations for CS55 Racing Karting Academy as it returns for third year

Williams Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz has confirmed that the CS55 Racing Karting Academy is returning for 2026 and that registrations are now open.

Sainz founded the CS55 Racing Karting Academy in 2024 with the aim of being the first step on the Spanish karting ladder for six to eight-year-olds. 2026 will see the academy, which works in partnership with Real Federación Española de Automovilismo, continue for its third year. 

"I've already told you all how important karting was for me, in the early days of my career," Sainz said in an Instagram video. "I remember that time with great affection, and because of that, in 2024, together with the Spanish Federation, we launched the CS55 Racing Karting Academy.

"A specific category for children between six and eight years old, for all the kids who want to start driving, their first steps in motorsport.

"In 2026, we will already have the third edition of this project. A project that for me, holds the key element, which is reducing costs to the maximum. Registrations are already open through the Federation. So there's no other choice but to meet on track. See you next time!"

This comes ahead of Sainz's second F1 season as a Williams driver alongside team-mate Alex Albon. Sainz joined the Grove outfit ahead of the 2025 season after being replaced by seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari.

Since joining the British team, Sainz has secured two podium finishes, the first under the leadership of team principal James Vowles, in Azerbaijan and Qatar.

Sainz finished the 2025 season ninth in the standings with 64 points, nine points behind Albon in eighth. 

Williams will unveil its 2026 F1 livery on 3 February after the private testing on 26-30 January. The 2026 season will kick off with the Australian Grand Prix on 6-8 March.