Chasing history on the global grid
At an age when most teenagers are just figuring out their daily routines, Filipino racing prodigy Mariano Axel Nocom, 14, is already trading paint with the world’s elite on international circuits. When he started at just five years old, Nocom rapidly ascended through the motorsport ranks—establishing himself as one of the most accomplished and versatile young karters the Philippines has ever produced.
From dominating domestic championships to waving the Philippine flag at the FIA Motorsport Games and the Asia Pacific Motorsport Championship, where he captured a gold medal, Axel has paved the way. His international campaign spans prestigious circuits across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, competing in top-tier competitions like the Champions of the Future Academy and Japan’s EV Karting Championship.
Remarkably versatile, he has mastered two-stroke, four-stroke, and high-performance electric karts. He consistently lands on the podium and sets track records, even against well-funded international competition. He does this despite operating with significantly less seat time.
But beyond his personal drive to reach the upper echelons of global motorsport, Axel is equally committed to transforming the landscape for future racers. Through grassroots initiatives and mentorship at home, he aims to build a sustainable pipeline that bridges the competitive gap between Southeast Asia and global racing powerhouses, proving that Filipino talent belongs at the front of every starting grid.
Here, we discuss Axel’s karting journey together with his father Mike, who has been the driving force behind his career.
How did Axel get started with karting? At what age and where?
Mike: Axel started at age five. It’s the best age to start outdoor karting; any younger would be too soon. It also depends on whether the child likes it. We were lucky that there was a small track in Makati offering rental karts, and it was perfect for a five-year-old at the time. Now, there are e-kart tracks at SM North and Ayala Malls.
What was the biggest challenge for you when you got started?
Axel: The biggest challenge was that there were no proper facilities or organized grids for Bambino racing at that time. Aside from the track owner’s two children, I was the only one in the Philippines doing Bambino karting.
How big is the local karting scene here in the Philippines? Where do you see it going?
Mike: Despite having existed for about 30 years, the local karting scene hasn’t really grown or developed compared to the countries where we race abroad.
If you are local, I would say it is still the best place to learn and get started, as well as to run a few rounds for experience. Then, if budget permits, go abroad to countries like Thailand, Macau, or Malaysia to compete in proper races against top regional drivers. However, the best tracks and drivers are in Europe, followed closely by Japan and the UAE.
The local scene will likely remain as it is for years to come since those without the budget cannot sustain it, while those with the means will simply choose to race overseas.
What are the next races or events you want to join or aim for?
Axel: I will have two more rounds in the Champions of the Future Academy in Aspar, Spain, and the final one in Franciacorta, Italy. I will also compete in a couple more rounds of the EV Kart Championships in Japan.
Then, I have two very important races in October and December. The FIA World Cup will be held in October, where some of the best drivers in the world will compete. Unlike the academy, which has about 36 drivers, the World Cup will have approximately 108 drivers, and one mistake could get you eliminated.
In December, I will compete in my first senior race against the best drivers in Asia. It will be held in Macau, and some European factory drivers will also participate because racing in Europe comes to a halt during the winter months.
How do you make sure he balances schoolwork and karting?
Mike: He does not attend face-to-face school but takes online classes when he is in the Philippines. Whenever he does not have training or anyone to teach, he works on his schoolwork. He also teaches children who are serious about learning karting.
Right now, what’s your biggest challenge in being a young karting champion?
Axel: The biggest challenge, as with many drivers, is funding. It is very expensive to race in Europe, and it is very far away. In the end, there are no regrets; we enjoyed the journey for ourselves and brought a little bit of honor to the Philippines.
Being a champion is just a bonus—we could buy a thousand trophies if that were all we were after—but rubbing wheels and bumpers with some of the best, and talking, playing, and sharing meals with them are experiences I will never forget. These are drivers who are destined to at least reach F2 if they don’t make it to F1.
What advice do you have for parents who want to get their kids (or themselves) started in karting?
Mike: The best advice for parents is to start in the most cost-effective way possible. Do not spend on unnecessary expenses just to look good on social media, especially if you are genuinely focused on the racing itself.
That said, if you are pursuing the social media route, that works too if your content helps secure funding. If a team seems too expensive to join, you can always look around for options that fit your budget.
The best rule of thumb is to “act poor and look poor”—Axel didn’t have any high-end gear when he started. A simulator at home is also a very cost-effective way to sharpen skills. Never overspend just to win, especially here in the Philippines; keep costs as low as possible and buy only what is necessary.
If any parents would like advice on how to get started, they are welcome to message me via @axelmotorsports on Facebook and Instagram.
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