The French Championship title was clinched by Gabin Leuillet after an incredible finale in KZ2 at Varennes. This thrilling race took place from July 23 to 26, 2026, featuring an impressive lineup of 82 drivers. The competition was fierce, with Téo Blin securing pole position ahead of Maxime Grillon and Arthur Lehouck. Blin dominated the qualifying heats, winning all four races, while Lehouck and Yohan Soguel also showcased their skills with two victories each.
Intense Competition in KZ2
Throughout the championship, drivers displayed remarkable talent. Gabin Leuillet made his mark by winning one of the heats, while Kevin Saïa took advantage of a brief rain shower to secure a heat victory as well. In the super heats, Blin continued to impress, finishing ahead of strong contenders like Dorian Guldenfels and Théodore Primault. The competition remained tight, with several drivers vying for the top positions.
Antoine Broggio also demonstrated his potential by winning super heat B, narrowly defeating Arthur Lehouck and Malo Bolliet. Aloïs Girardet shone in super heat C, outperforming established drivers such as Leuillet and Nicolas Masle. This set the stage for an exciting final race.
Final Race Dynamics
The start of the final was chaotic. Lehouck faced difficulties and fell back, while Guldenfels also struggled at the back of the pack. Broggio led the first lap, followed closely by Leuillet and Blin. Determined not to let Broggio escape, Blin made a move on Leuillet during the third lap, while a group of drivers, including Girardet and Primault, formed behind them, eager to challenge for the lead.
As the race progressed, Broggio seemed to build a comfortable lead. However, Blin increased his pace in the final laps, gradually closing the gap. By the start of the last lap, he caught up with Broggio and attempted to overtake. The two karts tangled, allowing Leuillet to capitalize on the situation and pass both drivers in one swift move.
Celebration and Triumph
The victory sparked immense joy in Leuillet’s camp. Having narrowly missed the title in 2025 due to a mechanical failure while leading, this win was particularly sweet. Broggio, despite finishing second, secured the vice-champion title ahead of Blin. Yohan Soguel made a remarkable recovery from 17th place, setting the fastest lap of the race, but a mechanical issue in the super heat hindered his chances of victory.
He finished fifth, just ahead of Anthony Mattelon, who emerged as one of the meeting’s revelations. Masle and Valente also had solid performances, finishing sixth and seventh respectively, while Bolliet faced disappointment after a collision that damaged his kart.
Key Takeaways from the Championship
- Gabin Leuillet’s strategic overtaking showcased his racing acumen.
- Adaptability during changing weather conditions proved crucial.
- Strong performances from young drivers like Soguel and Mattelon indicate a bright future for the sport.
- Mechanical reliability remains crucial in competitive karting.
Andréas Hebert finished ninth, followed by Robillot Lagache, the youngest driver in the top ten. Notably, both Girardet and Primault faced disappointment, retiring from the race while battling for fourth place.
Looking Ahead
The results of this championship highlight the intense competition within the KZ2 category. As drivers prepare for future events, the lessons learned from this race will undoubtedly influence their strategies. The excitement surrounding karting continues to grow, with many young talents emerging on the scene.
For those interested in following karting results, the Gippsland karting results provide insights into the latest performances and standings across various categories.
Final Thoughts
Gabin Leuillet’s first French Championship title is a testament to his hard work and dedication. The KZ2 final at Varennes was not just a race; it was a showcase of skill, strategy, and the relentless pursuit of victory. As the karting community reflects on this achievement, anticipation builds for the upcoming races and the next generation of champions.