The competition, one of the major karting events organized by the FIA as part of its 2026 calendar, was held in Genk, Belgium, from May 21 to 24, 2026.
The championship brings together some of the world’s most promising young karting talents, particularly drivers training through professional development academies. Rwanda was among only three African nations represented at the event, which featured competitors from 51 countries.
Kabera secured qualification after emerging as one of the top young karting drivers in Rwanda through competitions organized by the Rwanda Automobile Club (RAC).
The 2026 edition marked both Kabera’s debut in the championship and Rwanda’s first-ever participation in the competition.
Still adapting to the international stage, the young driver competed in the opening phase of the championship held on May 21 and 22.
Speaking to IGIHE, Kabera encouraged more young people to pursue karting despite its challenges.
“If you want to join kart racing, never lose hope. Sometimes it is difficult, and it takes persistence to reach the top,” he said. “I want to become a strong and disciplined driver, both physically and mentally, with clear goals.”
Kabera added that the experience in Belgium highlighted the importance of continuous training and dedication.
“I learned that I need much more practice and exposure because success is not only about talent. It also depends on the effort you put in and how hard you work to achieve your goals,” he said.
Kabera’s participation in the championship was sponsored by MUA and Inyange.
His coach, Gakwaya Eric, said the competition provided valuable lessons that will help shape the driver’s future development.
“He gained important international experience and saw the level at which the sport is played globally,” Gakwaya said. “We still need more training opportunities and better infrastructure because Rwanda does not yet have a circuit comparable to the one in Genk. At the moment, he trains in parking areas.”
Gakwaya revealed that plans are underway to secure additional training opportunities for Kabera in South Africa or Kenya, where karting infrastructure is more advanced.
“We are also looking at opportunities in Italy so that he can progress beyond qualifying rounds and eventually compete in final stages. Our long-term target is to help Rwanda break into the top 15 nations in the sport,” he added.
The coach also noted that Kabera’s performance was particularly impressive considering he had trained for only two months before competing against drivers with up to five years of experience.
RAC emphasized that participation in international karting competitions requires significant financial investment and thanked sponsors who supported Kabera’s journey.
The federation also called on additional partners and sponsors to support the growth of motorsport in Rwanda.
Kabera is expected to continue his international campaign in July 2026 at the Circuito Internazionale Napoli in Italy.
Photos: Emmy Uwimana
Karirima@igihe.com
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