The inaugural Java House Grand Prix is expected to draw massive crowds to Arlington from March 13-15. Many of those spectators will be children. Across the country, motorsports [Formula 1, NASCAR, IndyCar, etc.] have been growing in popularity among younger fans. \u00a0A growing segment of motorsports spectators is the younger crowd.<\/p>\n
One of those kids, already living out many of his racing dreams, is 11-year-old Liam Nachawati.<\/p>\n
The professional go-kart driver started at just 6 years old. What was supposed to be a hobby turned into an international circuit on karts, reaching speeds of up to 90 miles per hour.<\/p>\n
\u201cI race here in America, Dubai like Abu Dhabi, England, we go to Sweden, I race in Italy,” Nachawati said.<\/p>\n
He is on the Ricky Flynn Motorsports team. The same team that helped to shape the early careers of Formula 1 drivers like Formula One World Drivers’ Champion Lando Norris and his McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri. <\/p>\n
Liam said he loves the thrill; his parents want to make sure he is always safe while knowing the risks.<\/p>\n
\u201cNot every race that Liam’s involved in does he crash,\u201d Majed Nachawati said. \u201cBut every play, if your son is a starter, for example, in football, almost every play there’s a chance of a violent collision. In my mind, inherent in every sport, on the track, on the grid, there are risks to the children and the athletes.”<\/p>\n
Liam would love to fulfill his dream of earning a rare seat in Formula 1.<\/p>\n
While Formula 1 is very different from IndyCar racing, he and his family are very excited about the Java House Grand Prix racing in Arlington.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s definitely a big milestone for Texas as a state and IndyCar for itself. I think that’s really exciting,\u201d Liam said.<\/p>\n
His dad agreed and also thinks it will help attract even more events like it to North Texas.<\/p>\n
“In our opinion, more motorsports fans need more events here. We\u2019re happy that Arlington, the officials in Arlington, were able to make it happen,” Majed said.<\/p>\n
Majed said karting is the primary entry into a motorsport future. That\u2019s why Liam has accepted the sacrifices that include homeschooling, less time with his friends, and a massive financial commitment for his parents.<\/p>\n
“To race with the top international teams, your budget for a full race season should be around $350,000 to $450,000,” Majed said.<\/p>\n
Majed said he comes from humble beginnings. His dad worked in the plant at General Motors for decades, and he himself worked in a flea market to make ends meet when he was younger. He said he understands the price tag on motorsports, at this level, is nearly impossible for most families to overcome.<\/p>\n
That\u2019s why the Nachawati family said they are doing their part to help others. Majed said the family donates racing suits, car parts, and so much more.<\/p>\n
“We help families and raise money for kids who otherwise wouldn\u2019t have the budget to go into motorsports because it is so cost-prohibitive,\u201d Majed said.<\/p>\n