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Bahraini speedster and karting champion Khalid Al Najjar is revving up for his next appearance at the Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals, set to take place in the kingdom in November.
At just 14 years old, Khalid has already carved out a name for himself as one of Bahrain’s most promising motorsport talents, after being crowned Bahrain Karting Sprint Champion twice.
“As a child, I was fascinated by cars,” the British School of Bahrain student told GulfWeekly.
“My father, who has a deep love for motorsports, owned an impressive collection of vehicles. He encouraged my passion by enrolling me in a karting academy in Bahrain, and I instantly fell in love with the sport.”
His journey began at the age of seven, and his early start has led to a string of achievements.
In 2021 and 2024, he won the Bahrain Karting Sprint Championship, and has competed in events across Europe, including the Italian and Romanian Karting Championships, since his first international outing as a karting driver in 2019.
Last year, he also represented Bahrain in the prestigious FIA Karting Academy, gaining experience in France, Slovenia and Sweden.
“Participating in the FIA Academy Championship in 2024 was incredibly meaningful to me,” he said.
“It boosted my confidence to compete in Europe and connect with new drivers while representing Bahrain on an international stage.”
Balancing the life of a teenager with the demands of international sport is no small task.
Khalid trains at the gym twice a week, focusing on fitness through cycling, boxing and cardio. He also spends three days on the track, sharpening his skills with his coach and mechanical team.
“My parents do a great job of managing my time to ensure my studies aren’t affected,” he said.
Like many athletes, Khalid has faced setbacks.
A recent injury in Italy forced him out of the Euro Cup, but he responded with determination.
“I began therapy to aid my recovery and sought mindset coaching to help me regain my focus,” he explained.
“Racing abroad has taught me how to adapt to new techniques, tracks and even weather conditions. Every challenge makes me stronger.”
Khalid’s list of results already spans podiums in Bahrain, Romania and Italy, as well as appearances at the Rotax Grand Finals in Portugal and Italy.
And yet, his favourite track remains close to home – the Bahrain International Karting Circuit in Sakhir – followed closely by Sarno in Italy.
His ultimate ambition is clear.
“As a team, we are working to develop me towards Formula 4,” he said.
“Motorsport is a challenging sport that requires immense dedication, focus and training.
“I aspire to become a racing driver in motorsport, especially since Bahrain is the heart of motorsport in the region.”
One day, he hopes to be in the same league as his racing heroes McLaren driver Lando Norris and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, whom he met during one of their races in Bahrain.
For Khalid, the road ahead is paved with challenges, but he is mindful of the bigger picture.
When asked what advice he might offer to others choosing this path, he said: “Believe in yourself and pursue your passion; determination is key to achieving any dream.
“My family has been incredibly supportive from the beginning. They help me manage my schedule, maintain my diet, and monitor my progress, providing mental, emotional and financial support throughout my journey.”
As November approaches, eyes will be on Khalid when the Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals bring the global karting spotlight back to the kingdom.
The event will be held from November 29 to December 6 at the Bahrain International Circuit.
