Juan Camilo Duque achieved an outstanding South American title

The Colombian pilot was crowned champion of the DD2 Master category at the Rotax Max Challenge South America Trophy 2025 in Ecuador and will compete in the Grand Finals in Bahrain,

Photo: Juan Camilo Duque

The Bogota driver Juan Camilo Duque won the category title DD2 Master in it Rotax Max Challenge South America Trophy 2025held at the Cotopaxi Kartódromo, in Ecuador, and with this he assured his classification to the Grand Finals Rotax 2025which will be held in Bahrain between November 29 and December 6. There he will share the track with motorsport legends, such as the former Formula 1 driver Rubens Barrichellotoday a consolidated figure in international karting.

Duque's achievement not only represents a personal triumph, but also an important step for Colombian karting, a discipline that has grown in competitiveness and visibility in recent years. In Cotopaxi, the contest brought together 130 pilots from eight South American countriesall with the same objective: to earn a place at the Rotax world event, one of the most prestigious on the calendar. In the midst of a demanding competition, with changing weather and a high technical level, Duque showed mettle, perseverance and speed to dominate his category and climb to the top step of the podium.

“It has been a very tough competition, with high-level rivals and changing track conditions. This victory is the result of teamwork and the passion to raise the name of Colombia,” said the pilot after his consecration. His words reflect the mix of effort and discipline that have led him to become one of the current leaders of national karting.

The scenario was not simple. He Cotopaxi Kartódromocon 1,455.6 meters long and 17 curves clockwiseis known for being one of the most technical routes in the region. Its combination of fast zones, intense braking and wide overtaking spaces requires precision and constant concentration. The karts in the DD2 Master category, where Duque competes, can reach speeds of between 89 y 115 km/hwhich turns each lap into a battle to maintain the pace without making mistakes.

The next big challenge will be in Bahrainduring the Grand Finals Rotax 2025an event that brings together the champions of the different national and continental series in the world. There, the Colombian will have the opportunity to compete with high-caliber pilots, including Rubens Barrichellowho in addition to his extensive career in Formula 1 – with more than 300 Grand Prix contested – is still active in motorsports and has found in karting a way to stay competitive and close to his sporting roots.

Beyond the individual challenge, the presence of Juan Camilo Duque in Bahrain also means a new international representation for Colombia in a sport that has been the basis for the training of great pilots in the world. Karting, often seen as the cradle of motorsport, requires technical precision, physical ability and race reading; attributes that Duque has developed and successfully tested.

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