Scott Barnes Signs For Maranello Kart USA
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Scott Barnes has agreed to drive for Maranello Kart USA for the remainder of the year, admitting their offer was “too good to turn down.”
The island’s top driver was offered the deal after impressing on his first outing for them in the Roc USA Florida Winter Tour second round at the AMR Homestead-Miami Motorplex last weekend, securing two podium finishes in the Shifter Masters and L206 Masters.
The 39-year-old said it was a “tough decision” to leave Magic Kart USA after racing for the Ohio-based team for the past two and half years.
He will suit up for Maranello Kart USA at the upcoming Skusa Pro Tour Winternationals and the Roc USA Florida Winter Tour final round in Orlando, Florida.
He will also race in the inaugural Stars Championship Series, which features four races, starting in Charlotte, North Carolina, in April.
“I hate to leave Magik – it’s a team I’ve become very close to over the past few years,” Barnes told Bernews.
“However, financially, it makes sense to go with the team paying me to have a ‘free ride.’ I can’t turn that down at this stage of my racing career.
“I’m leaving Magik on good terms and will look forward to seeing them out on the track. Who knows what the future may bring.”
Barnes, the former Bermuda Karting Club president, acknowledges he will have extra pressure to achieve podium finishes with his new team but is excited by the challenge.
“I’ll need to perform to keep them happy,” he said. “They want to see their karts on the podium. As the old saying goes, ‘What wins on Sunday sells on Monday.’ I’m looking forward to a full year racing in the United States.”
Barnes has also announced his continued relationship with his sponsors, Butterfield & Vallis, with the Bermudian representing their Powerade brand.
“It’s awesome to have Butterfield & Vallis helping me again,” he added. “They’ve sponsored me for several years, and I’m grateful for their support.”
