11:34 am, September 17, 2026
A new national karting championship is being launched to raise money for automotive industry charity Ben.
Karting4Ben will bring together dealerships, manufacturers, suppliers and other automotive businesses for a series of endurance races across the UK this autumn.
The championship has been created by the team behind The British Motor Show following the success of Bangers4Ben and will be exclusively sponsored by insurance intermediary Howden.
Four regional heats will take place in Reading, Crawley, Leeds and Nottingham throughout October and November, before qualifying teams return to Reading for a Grand Final.
Each event will feature up to 12 teams of four drivers competing in a professionally managed two-hour endurance race.
Organisers say the championship has been designed as a more accessible alternative for businesses which want to support Ben but cannot commit the time required for events such as Bangers4Ben.
Andy Entwistle, CEO of Motor Shows Ltd, said: ‘Bangers4Ben has shown us just how passionate the automotive industry is about supporting Ben, but we also know that not everyone can spare several days away from work to take part in a European rally.
‘Karting4Ben gives businesses another fantastic way to get involved. It’s competitive, accessible and great fun, while creating genuine opportunities for team building and networking.
‘Most importantly, every lap completed and every pound raised helps Ben continue supporting people in our industry when they need it most.’
When and where are the Karting4Ben races?
The opening heat will take place in Reading on October 14, followed by Crawley on October 21.
The championship then heads to Leeds on November 4 and Nottingham on November 18.
The Grand Final will be held at Teamworks Karting in Reading on November 25, where qualifying teams will compete for the inaugural Ben Cup alongside a special All-Star Team.
Qualification will be based on both racing performance and fundraising, giving teams another route into the final away from their results on track.
Trophies will also be handed out at each event for the winning team, fastest driver and the Spirit of Ben Award.
Entries cost £360 per team for up to four drivers, including racing, food and refreshments.
Matthew Brady, commercial schemes manager – motor trade at Howden, said: ‘As one of the UK’s specialist motor trade insurance brokers, we’re incredibly proud to support Ben and the important work they do.
‘Karting4Ben is a brilliant opportunity for the industry to come together, enjoy some friendly competition, and raise funds for a charity that supports so many people when they need it most.’
Ben provides support to people working in the automotive industry who are facing issues including financial hardship, mental health challenges, illness and major changes in their personal circumstances.
Teams can find out more and enter via the Karting4Ben website.