Karting4Ben – a new charity endurance karting championship exclusively sponsored by Howden is bringing together dealerships, manufacturers, suppliers and automotive businesses from across the UK

Following the incredible success of Bangers4Ben, the team behind The British Motor Show has announced the launch of Karting4Ben, exclusively sponsored by Howden, a leading global insurance intermediary group. This exciting new charity championship combines competitive motorsport, networking and team building, while raising vital funds for automotive industry charity Ben.

Designed exclusively for the automotive industry, Karting4Ben will see teams of four drivers battle it out across four regional endurance races this autumn, with the country's fastest – and most committed fundraising teams – earning a place in a spectacular Grand Final to compete for the inaugural Ben Cup.

Taking place at some of the UK's leading indoor kart circuits, the championship has been created to offer businesses a fun, accessible and affordable way to bring colleagues, customers and partners together, all while supporting a charity that provides life-changing help to people working in the automotive sector.

Each regional event will feature up to twelve teams competing in a professionally managed two-hour endurance race, with exclusive venue hire allowing competitors to enjoy an evening of racing, networking, food and refreshments.

The 2026 championship calendar includes:

  • Leeds – 9th September
  • Nottingham – 23rd September
  • Reading – 14th October
  • Crawley – 21st October

The championship culminates with the Grand Final at Teamworks Karting in Reading on 4th November, where qualifying teams will battle for overall honours alongside a special All-Star Team. Qualification is earned not only through on-track performance but also through fundraising success, ensuring every team has the opportunity to make a real difference.

As well as overall honours, trophies will be presented at every event recognising:

  • Winning Team
  • Fastest Driver
  • Fastest Dealer Team
  • Fastest Manufacturer Team
  • Spirit of Ben Award

Team entries cost £500 for up to four drivers and include race entry, food and refreshments, professional event management and the opportunity to qualify for the championship final. Guests are also welcome to attend and support participating teams.

Teams can find out more and sign up by visiting www.motorshow.live/karting4ben.

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."

Matthew Brady, Commercial Schemes Manager – Motor Trade, Howden, added: "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."

Howden’s Motor Trade team works with many types of motor trade businesses, from bodyshops and sole traders to franchise main dealers and national car supermarkets. They draw on years of industry experience to help identify suitable insurance solutions for your business. To learn more about Howden Motor Trade visit: https://www.howdengroup.com/karting4ben. 

Ben continues to provide essential support to thousands of people across the automotive industry every year, helping those facing financial hardship, mental health challenges, illness and life-changing circumstances. Every team entering Karting4Ben will play a part in ensuring that support continues. With places limited at each regional heat, businesses are encouraged to register early to secure their place on the starting grid.

ENDS

Contact
Andy Entwistle – CEO Motor Shows Ltd
Email: Andy@motorshow.live 
Website: www.motorshow.live

Notes to Editors

ABOUT HOWDEN UK&I RETAIL
Howden UK&I Retail, part of British-founded global insurance intermediary group Howden, is one of the largest specialist insurance and financial services distribution groups in the UK and Ireland.

Providing insurance, risk management, mortgage, financial planning, and health and employee benefits services, placing over £3bn in premium, the business is re-energising the world of insurance and financial advice.

With specialist teams comprised of 7,000+ colleagues based in over 200 offices in communicates across the UK and Ireland, Howden UK&I Retail delivers positively personal advice shaped around the unique risks and ambitions of every client, from private individuals and SMEs to large corporations. More information can be found at www.howdengroup.com.