Max Verstappen Overtakes 100 Amateur Go-Karters In Silverstone Exhibition

Max Verstappen produced a remarkable performance at Silverstone, overtaking 100 amateur drivers in just 14 laps during a special exhibition kart race.

The four‑time world champion was given a maximum of 35 laps and 75 minutes to complete the challenge on a specially modified karting track at the iconic Formula 1 circuit, but needed barely half that time.

A Dominant Max Verstappen Display At Silverstone

Starting from the very back of the grid, Verstappen immediately carved through the field. A chaotic opening lap - featuring multiple spins and collisions - briefly halted the action, yet he still climbed to 37th before the suspension.

“When I went to the grid, and I saw where I had to start, with 100 karts in front of me, I was a little bit worried,” he admitted.

But after navigating the early chaos, he said: “I did think ‘OK, we have got this under control’.”

Once the race resumed, Verstappen settled into a rhythm, picking off rivals one by one. By lap six he was already inside the top 10, and by lap 10 he had climbed to fourth.

Each driver he passed was required to retire, gradually thinning the field as he closed in on the final few competitors.

Final Charge and Victory

The last three drivers standing were Dutch journalist Jacky Martens, Red Bull engine builder Lewis Osler and YouTuber Zac Alsop.

All were granted a special “fast lap” shortcut to delay Verstappen’s charge, but the Dutchman inevitably reeled them in. Martens, who had started from pole, was the final driver overtaken as Verstappen completed the challenge with 40 minutes and 21 laps still unused.

The event marked a nostalgic return to Verstappen’s karting roots. “It was great to just be back in a go‑kart again and go back to basics,” he said.

“It reminded me of racing back in the day… I had a great day and it was good to come out with the win.”

For more paddock updates, follow the latest F1 news, expert F1 tips and updated F1 odds.