Bermuda’s premier karting export Scott Barnes is back in the driver’s seat this weekend as he launches his 2026 campaign at the 28th anniversary of the Florida Winter Tour.
Competing at the Orlando Kart Center, the Maranello Karts USA driver is set to take on the opening round of the prestigious three-part series promoted by ROK Cup USA. For Barnes, a seasoned veteran of the North American circuit, the event marks a shift in strategy as he commits to the full ROK Cup schedule for the first time in his career.
Taking to social media after his initial practice sessions in Florida, Barnes—affectionately known as "Skitchy"—signaled his intent for the weekend.
"Two sessions on track today. Rust knocked off, gave the kart a good shakedown," Barnes posted. "Ready to go bang some gears tomorrow! Qualifying and Heat 1 tomorrow. Heat 2/3 and Pre-Final Saturday. Final Sunday, let’s Go!"
The Shifter Masters specialist arrives in Orlando in peak form, having capped off a historic 2025 season by being crowned "King of the Streets" at the Rock Island Grand Prix.
While Barnes has dominated the SKUSA Winter Series in recent years—securing four successive titles—this year sees him focus his efforts on the ROK Cup program.
The 2026 tour features a challenging three-round format:
Round 1: January 16–18 (Orlando Kart Center)
Round 2: February 6–8 (Orlando Kart Center)
Round 3: March 6–8 (T4 Kartplex, Palmetto)
Barnes, who is sponsored by Powerade, All Rise Limited, and Simpsons Motorsports, is no stranger to the Orlando circuit but acknowledges the depth of the field in the ROK Shifter Masters class.
With professional scouts and international teams watching the season opener closely, the Bermudian will look to use Friday’s qualifying session to secure a front-row start. Success in Florida would add yet another prestigious title to a trophy cabinet that already includes multiple national championships and "All-Star" honors.
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