The siblings have established themselves as a formidable force on the track. Their rapid ascent culminated in significant success during the 2024 Pro Kart SSS Championship. 

Giuliana, based at the Vereeniging Karting Club, secured the first place in her age group, demonstrating remarkable focus and discipline. Matteo achieved a highly competitive second place overall, overcoming an early-season injury that forced him to miss the first race. 

These results underscore the family’s intensive commitment, built upon rigorous practice sessions focused on race lines and braking zones, said their mother, Natalie.

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“It was a very, very proud moment for us. It was a pinnacle of lots of love and dedication and running around and just everything coming together with one result, which is obviously what everyone aims for when you go racing.” 

The demanding nature of competitive motorsport, particularly its financial requirements, necessitates a strategic approach to family and corporate support. 

The Saladino family has successfully forged partnerships with five sponsors from within the automotive and motorsport support industry, allowing the young drivers to pursue their national and international aspirations. 

Matteo, Natalie, and Giuliana Saladino. Photo supplied 

Giuliana’s success is particularly resonant in the context of fostering inclusivity in motorsport, her mother says. As a young female champion in a nontraditional sport, she has embraced the role of an inspiration for girls globally.

The household manages the intensive racing schedule alongside demanding academic priorities, the mother adds. 

“For our household, schooling and academic results are a top priority,” said Saladino.

As a young female champion in a nontraditional sport, Giuliana has embraced the role of an inspiration for girls globally, her mother says. Photo supplied

The team’s strategic vision extends to 2026, when the plan is to migrate Guliana into the two-stroke Rotax South Africa Series, aligning her journey with Matteo, who is currently navigating his rookie season in that competitive category. 

With Giuliana actively defending her 2025 title and Matteo building experience, the Saladino siblings are focused on leveraging their current success to secure future global representation.

Matteo Saladino is currently navigating his rookie season in that competitive category. Photo supplied

The family’s journey provides a narrative on how dedication, strategic planning, and unwavering family support can fuel global championship dreams from the grassroots of South African karting.

“We want to fly that South African flag for every person on a global level one day, and I’m hoping that both kids will be able to achieve that,” said Saldino.

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OFM News/Refilwe Bekane