An 11-year-old North East racer has capped a remarkable season by claiming a national title after a championship battle that went all the way to the final round.
Youngster Emilio Pereira has been crowned 2026 British Mini Bike Champion, securing the title following months of racing across the country.
Emilio overcame fierce competition and the pressure of a championship decider to claim the biggest success of his young career.
The Normanby rider entered the final round with the championship still on the line, with another talented youngster remaining firmly in contention.
But Emilio never let the pressure show.
His family said the title rewarded months of hard work and sacrifice.
"We are absolutely buzzing for Emilio. He's worked his little heart out all year for this, and we couldn't be prouder," they said.
"There have been plenty of ups and downs along the way, but he's shown so much resilience, determination and maturity when faced with pressure and some seriously tough competition."
Emilio fell in love with racing at the age of eight, having been to Silverstone to watch MotoGP, immediately going home and asking his father, Angelo, for a bike.
It wasn't long until the young man was hitting the track, and six months later while at an event he was told he "had something special".
From there, Emilio has risen through the ranks rapidly, winning the rookie championship in 2024 before skipping the pro bike championship and competing in geared racing straight away.
While much of his short career has evolved at a rapid speed, his grandad, Des, has been a constant figure of support.
Having been behind the famed visit to Silverstone, a lot of the Normanby-born racer's mentality comes from his drandad, including the mantra he hears every time he steps onto the bike.
His grandad says: "Be calm - be confident"
It's a sentiment that shows while Emilio lifted the trophy, his family have played a major role in the young racer achieving his goals.
Angelo Pereira, Emilio's father, said: "This championship has been made possible not only by Emilio's hard work, but by the incredible amount of time, effort, money and sacrifice from everyone around us.
"This season we've had amazing support from our sponsors, supporters, friends and family, and we are genuinely so grateful to every single person who has helped us along the way."
He added: "That's why this one really feels like 'we' did it."
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And his season may not be over yet with Emilio still in contention for the FAB Racing Championship, needing just 18 points to claim the title.
For now though, Emilio can celebrate becoming British champion – another step towards his dream of one day becoming MotoGP world champion.
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