The 2025/2026 IAME UAE Series reached a critical juncture during Rounds 4 and 5, held as a high-stakes double-header event at Sharjah Kart Track on November 23-24. Under ideal 25-degree conditions, the technical circuit witnessed intense competition that reshaped championship standings across multiple categories.
The challenging layout of the Sharjah track, renowned for its limited overtaking opportunities and rhythmic demands, tested drivers’ racecraft and strategic execution. This event series, integral to developing grassroots motorsport in the region, continues the global legacy of IAME—the Italian kart engine manufacturer established in 1968 that first introduced championship karting to the UAE through Ras Al Khaimah’s RAK Track.
Saturday’s Round 4 produced dramatic results across all classes. Mark Ristic claimed victory in Bambino category ahead of Samuel Karajkovic and Yousef Alkhayyat. Francesco Lisignoli delivered a commanding performance in Mini category, holding off Benjamin Karajkovic with Charlie Page completing the podium. Junior category saw Henry King secure victory ahead of Mitansh Jain and Veer Chopra, while Senior category featured Rayan Koreishi taking top honors over Jagrat Detroja and Jeremy Montgomery-Swan. Yousif Busenad dominated Senior/170 class with Alexandros Annivas and novice Arsene Djolovic rounding out the podium.
Sunday’s Round 5 brought equally compelling action as Samuel Karajkovic reversed Saturday’s result with a Bambino victory over Ristic, while Sam Testa claimed third. Ilyas Sami demonstrated impressive defensive driving in Mini Final to secure victory by a mere 0.213 seconds over Benjamin Karajkovic, with Baptiste Augustin charging to third. Nathan Kappen delivered a standout performance in Junior category, carving through the field to claim victory ahead of teammate Mitansh Jain, with Aaryan Singh securing third. Jeremy Montgomery-Swan earned a well-managed Senior category win over Adam Elbassiony and Jules Domont, while Oscar Bray claimed victory in Senior/170 ahead of Annivas and Djolovic.
Media Friends, the official media partner, provided comprehensive coverage throughout the weekend. CEO Giovanni Dezzani remarked: ‘Sharjah consistently elevates driver performance. The exceptional competition level demonstrates the remarkable talent development across all categories. The vibrant atmosphere, competitive racing, and team dedication underscore karting’s growing prominence in the UAE.’
The series now progresses to its next highlight event at Yas Marina Circuit on January 3-4, 2026, where drivers will compete for crucial championship points on one of motorsport’s most iconic venues.