Mikel Bezuidenhout is about to swap South African tarmac for one of Britain’s most famous circuits. The 18-year-old Johannesburg driver will line up in the Walter Hayes Trophy at Silverstone, which runs from 29 October to 1 November 2026.

Bezuidenhout will race a Spectrum-chassis Formula Ford car for KMR Sport (Kevin Mills Racing), one of the established names in the category. For a young driver still building his career, it is a rare chance to measure himself against international competition on a world-class stage.

A rising name at home

Bezuidenhout arrives in the UK with momentum. He finished runner-up in the 2025 Investchem MSA4 Championship, then opened his 2026 season in style at Killarney in Cape Town, taking pole position and winning two races. He has also gained experience in the Southern African Endurance Series (SAES), adding variety to his development.

Learning the international way

Formula Ford rewards driver skill, racecraft and precision over outright machinery, which makes it an ideal proving ground for a driver sharpening his craft. Bezuidenhout is clear about what he wants from the trip.

“Competing at the Walter Hayes Trophy at Silverstone is an exciting opportunity for me, and I’m looking forward to the challenge,” he said. “As a young South African driver, getting the chance to race in the UK with KMR Sport is an important step in my development. I want to learn as much as possible, push myself against strong international competition and make the most of this experience. I’m grateful to everyone who has supported my journey so far, and I’m excited to see what we can achieve.”

More than a single race

For Bezuidenhout, the trip is about growth as much as results: testing himself against experienced rivals and building towards his long-term motorsport ambitions. It also puts South African talent in front of a wider audience and shines a light on the pathways open to young drivers who want to look beyond their home circuits.

All eyes will now be on how the young South African adapts to international Formula Ford racing, and on what he brings home to the next stage of his career.