Two years ago, Motorsport South Africa reported on a young rookie motorcycle rider who spoke about never giving up and adopting the same can-do attitude as his idol Lewis Hamilton.
Fast forward two years later and 17-year-old Grade 11 learner, Kgopotso Mononyane, ‘the second’ (affectionately known as KJ), is doing just that. This incredible young man, who started racing at the age of 10 and literally eats, sleeps and breathes motorcycle racing, is starting to make exciting waves in the global motorcycle world, having just re-signed with his AGR Racing Team for the 2025 FIM JuniorGP season. He has also picked up two points finishing places in his debut season, and with Ruche Moodley now graduating to Moto3, all eyes are on KJ to fly the South African flag high. KJ is also competing in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, which has been one of his all-time dreams.
With his father tragically no longer alive to spur him on and witness the incredible progress KJ is making in the sport, his mother, Kgomotso, remains steadfast at her son’s side to help him fulfil his dreams.
KJ’s first break came in 2017 when Neil Harran from the South African Motorcycle Racing Academy visited his school’s open day and was blown away by the talented 10-year-old. He recommended to KJ’s parents that they enrol him into his academy, and this is how he started participating competitively in the short circuit road racing series in the NSF100cc Honda Cup. Two years later, he won his first championship in 2019.
In 2020, KJ claimed another title in the Clubman’s championship and finished second in the 150 cup – a category he went on to win the next year. He started competing in Italy in June 2021, in the middle of the racing season.
In 2022 MSA, first secured funding assistance for KJ from the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), which is the global sanctioning body of motorcycle racing. “While this amount represented only a very tiny portion of the racing budget needed, it was greatly appreciated,” says Vic Maharaj, Motorsport South Africa Chief Executive Officer. “We would love to see more of our young talent starting to compete internationally as well and KJ is a shining example of what can be achieved,” he says.
To date, KJ has won multiple circuit motorcycle racing championships.
In just seven years of competitive motorcycle racing, KJ has secured four championship titles, consistently achieving more significant results each year. Below is a summary of his accomplishments:
- 2019: Champion in the NSF100 Championship.
- 2020: Winner of the Clubman’s Championship and runner-up in the 150-Cup Championship.
- 2021: First place in the 150-Cup Championship; Competed in the Italian CIV Championship Premoto 3.
- 2023: First place in the MRRSA Championship SUB 500 in the Motorcycle Racing Series South Africa (MRSSA)
Moving forward, KJ will train under the guidance and management of 111 Management, focusing on enhancing all aspects of his racing career to elevate his performance.
Maharaj says KJ believes he was ‘born to be a champion’ and is honouring his father’s memory with his commitment to motorcycle racing.
“There is nothing more satisfying and exciting than seeing a young rider cling to their dream, pursue it and, ultimately, live it. It is what champions are made of; resilience and passion to succeed. We are so proud of KJ and proud to be at his side as he goes from strength to strength.”
His mom says dedication and commitment are key to success in the sport but, above all, riders must be professional, self-disciplined and subscribe to the ‘rules of the game’.
“His dad believed so much in his potential – so much so that he wanted to see KJ race overseas. He signed a contract and submitted it to the team in Italy the day before he died. Signing this contract was the greatest achievement for him and he told me to always believe in our son. If he were alive now, he would be bursting with pride.”
KJ has the final word on his hopes and dreams. “As I build my career in motorcycle racing, I remain committed to pushing my limits and striving for excellence in every aspect of my life. I am confident in my ability to keep improving. My ultimate goal is to compete in the MotoGP. Right now, I believe that I am on the right track and with hard work, patience and consistency, I am getting closer to making that dream a reality.”
PREPARED ON BEHALF OF MOTORSPORT SOUTH AFRICA BY CATHY FINDLEY PR