Indoor karting operator K1 Speed set to open UK flagship location at XSite Braehead during autumn 2025

XSite Braehead reports that K1 Speed, an indoor karting operator, will be opening its UK flagship at the entertainment destination.

The facility, featuring the world’s longest indoor karting track, is backed by a £5.5 million investment that will create approximately 80 jobs in Scotland.

Scheduled to open in autumn 2025, K1 Speed will feature a three-decked indoor karting track that spans over 1,000 metres and will be designed to accommodate up to 35 electric karts racing simultaneously. 

K1 Speed, which has 100 locations worldwide, including 70 sites in the USA and locations in international countries such as Canada, Mexico, France and Italy, says it selected Braehead for its rich motorsport history and strategic location near Glasgow’s international airport.

Spanning over 90,000 sq ft., this multi-level track, equipped with the latest in safety technology and advanced timing systems, will cater to racers of all skill levels. The karts, priced at £15,000 each, are capable of reaching speeds of up to 40 mph and accelerating to top speed in seconds.  

In addition to the karting track, the venue will feature an e-sports lounge equipped with premium racing simulators.

Kitty Vaughan, Head of UK Leisure and F&B at Pradera Lateral, XSite’s Asset Management team, says: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome K1 Speed to XSite Braehead making us the home of the world’s largest indoor karting track and e-sports venue.”

“This exciting addition not only enhances our leisure offering but also reinforces our commitment to providing inclusive and engaging experiences for all visitors. K1 Speed’s innovative approach and dedication to community engagement align perfectly with our vision for XSite Braehead.”

“We look forward to seeing the positive impact this flagship venue will have on Glasgow and beyond.” 

Matthew Holyfield, Managing Director at K1 Speed UK, says: “Our goal is to provide a top-tier entertainment experience that appeals to both casual racers and serious competitors. The new K1 Speed Braehead will embody our commitment to innovation, safety, and fun, and we’re excited to bring this to the region.”

“We chose XSite because of its vibrant community and love for motorsport and can’t wait to see the excitement this new venue will bring to Glasgow.” 

K1 Speed will join a roster of entertainment offerings including a newly refurbished Tenpin, upsized Funstation and Odeon IMAX among various food and beverage offerings.  

2024 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Hospitality and leisure is a key focus area for the sixth edition of the RTIH Innovation Awards, which is now open for entries.

The awards, sponsored by CADS, 3D Cloud, Retail Technology Show 2025, and Business France, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

It’s free to enter and you can do so across multiple categories.

Key 2024 dates

Friday, 25th October: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 29th October: 2024 shortlist revealed

30th October-6th November: Judging days

Thursday, 21st November: Winners announced at the 2024 RTIH Innovation Awards ceremony, to be held at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London.