Kempton Park’s Nasri Henri is already making a name for himself in karting, with big dreams of one day racing in Formula 1.
The 13-year-old driver began karting at just six years old and quickly fell in love with the sport.
“I remember the baby kart track where you had to go with a parent. My mom used to drive, and I would sit on her lap,” said Nasri.
“I felt so excited and wanted to hold the steering wheel myself. That’s when I first fell in love with being on track.”
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He said he realised karting could become something serious when track officials encouraged him to join the Sodi World Series in South Africa.
“That’s when I realised people saw potential in me and that this could become something bigger than just a hobby,” he said.
Nasri describes his driving style as strategic, determined and brave.
“I try to think ahead during a race and not just react in the moment. I study my opponents and look for the right opportunity to make a move. I don’t give up easily, and when there’s a gap, I commit to it.”
Before every race, he focuses on his mindset.
“I always pray first. Then I tell myself that I can do it and that I’ve prepared for this moment.”
At the age of 11, Nasri had to fight back during a race at Gateway, an experience that shaped his resilience.
“That race taught me that I’m mentally strong, that I can endure tough moments and that I will never give up, no matter what happens.”
His favourite track is Eastgate, which he calls his home circuit.
“Eastgate is very technical and challenges you as a driver. That’s why I enjoy it so much,” he said.
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Nasri recently celebrated a major achievement when he secured pole position and victory at the season opener.
“It felt like it was meant for me. I was proud and excited, but also nervous at the same time. It gave me confidence that the hard work is paying off,” he said.
“My race craft has improved the most. I’ve gone from being a defensive driver to understanding when and where to overtake, how to enter the apex properly and how to exit corners for the best possible result.”
His parents remain his biggest supporters.
“They sacrifice a lot of time and energy to help me chase my dream. They take me to practice, support me at every race, help me stay disciplined with school and always remind me to stay humble and focused.”
“My father motivates me a lot. He always says, ‘Let’s do what we have to do, so that we can do what we want to do.’ That reminds me that the hard work now will help me achieve my dreams later.”
Off the track, Nasri is a Grade 7 learner at King Edward Preparatory School, where he balances academics and racing with discipline.
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“School always comes first in our home. I complete my homework and prepare for tests before race weekends. If we travel, I take my books with me so that I don’t fall behind. It takes discipline, but education is important for my future.”
He lists arts as his favourite subject.
“I enjoy being creative and expressing myself in different ways. It also helps me relax and switch off from racing for a while.”
To stay competitive, Nasri focuses on both physical and mental preparation.
“I work on my fitness and stamina because karting is physically demanding. I do strength and endurance training, practise reflex drills and sometimes review race footage to see where I can improve. Mental preparation is also important, so I visualise races and practise staying calm under pressure.”
One of his biggest upcoming opportunities is competing in the Electric Sodi World Series in Italy in June.
“It’s exciting to represent South Africa and measure myself against some of the best young drivers in the world.
“I never expected to be racing internationally at my age, so it feels like a big blessing and achievement. It motivates me to push even harder,” he said.
I am both excited and nervous. Competing internationally is a big step, but I see nerves as a good thing because it means it matters to me. I’m mostly excited to learn and gain experience.”
He draws inspiration from Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton.
“I admire his strength and determination to push through all odds. Brazil 2021 stands out to me. After receiving a penalty and starting at the back, he fought his way through the field and was battling for first place. That showed real resilience.”
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Looking ahead, Nasri has clear goals.
“In five years’ time, I see myself competing in Formula 4 and working towards earning a seat in Formula 3 or Formula 2.
“My biggest dream is to drive in Formula 1 one day, especially for Ferrari.”
If he weren’t racing, he says he would likely be playing cricket, another sport he enjoys at school.
For other young drivers, Nasri has simple advice: “Practice makes permanent. The work you do when no one is watching makes the difference.”
As he continues to grow in the sport, Nasri remains focused.
“I’m taking it one race at a time, learning and improving every weekend. My dream is big, but I know it starts with doing the small things right every day.”
