Kortrijk – Kortrijk is set to host its inaugural Short Track Race on October 2, 2025, at Worldkarts Kortrijk, featuring categories for youth, women, and men. Alderman Wouter Allijns endorses this initiative as a way to enhance the city’s cycling culture, reports 24brussels.
The upcoming event will take place on an indoor karting track characterized by numerous turns and minimal straight segments. Participants will engage in a 20-minute race, competing to complete the most laps within the time frame. The primary prize will be awarded to the cyclist who achieves the highest lap count, while an additional prize will recognize the fastest lap of the day.
What makes Kortrijk’s karting track ideal for the short track race?
Gregory Laporte of Worldkarts highlights that the track is tailored for cyclists who excel at cornering and maintaining speed through turns. Success will depend on a combination of control, accuracy, and speed. Modifications for safety will be implemented, requiring cyclists to utilize a bridge rather than the lower underpass.
“We want to boost the cycling vibe a bit more and get as many Kortrijk residents as possible enthusiastic about cycling.”
Wouter Allijns, Alderman for Sports (Team Mayor City List Kortrijk)
The underpass, while appropriate for karts, poses a height risk for cyclists, even when wearing helmets. Alderman Wouter Allijns emphasized that the race reflects Kortrijk’s robust cycling culture, evident throughout village centres and major classic races, now including a karting track. The event will accommodate participants across three categories: youth aged 12 to 15, women, and men, organized into groups based on skill levels.
Worldkarts Kortrijk is a renowned indoor karting venue in West Flanders, Belgium, recognized for hosting both professional and leisure races. In recent years, it has expanded its offerings to include cycling events aimed at promoting the sport locally. The karting circuit underwent redesign in September 2015 to enhance its layout.
Additions including new karts with more powerful engines in 2016 and a new section under the bridge in 2017 have upgraded the facility. Notably, the venue has previously hosted major events, including the Kart World Championship in both 2008 and 2023. The incorporation of cycling into its programming marks an exciting new chapter for Worldkarts Kortrijk.