Armless Driver Callum Smith Hits 110 MPH, Eyes Le Mans

A 23-year-old driver who steers with his feet just hit 110 mph on a professional racing circuit and is now aiming for one of motorsport's most iconic events.

Callum Smith was born without arms, but that hasn't stopped him from pursuing his lifelong dream of becoming a professional race car driver. After watching bike racing with his grandfather at age 2, Smith fell in love with speed and never looked back.

His racing career began with a simple email to Team BRIT, the world's only competitive racing team made up entirely of disabled drivers. "I said if they were interested in making my dreams come true, I'd be forever grateful," Smith recalled. They responded, and after passing instructor tests and a skid test, his journey officially began.

Smith completed his first track day in July 2024, maxing out at 90 mph around Donington Park. Four months ago, he reached 100 mph at the legendary Silverstone Formula One circuit in his own Audi A3. Now he's working toward his racing license in a modified BMW 1 Series at Donington Park.

The car features a flat plate that allows him to steer with his feet. His left foot controls the steering plate while his right foot operates the accelerator and brake. An indicator switch mounted on the accelerator gives him access to buttons for the horn, headlights, and windshield wipers.

For Smith, using his feet comes naturally. "My feet are like my hands," he explained. "I write with my right foot, I play Xbox with my feet like FIFA and Call of Duty. I play guitar with my feet, and I eat by myself using a normal knife and fork."

Why This Inspires

Smith's determination shows that physical limitations don't define what's possible when passion meets innovation. His journey from sending a hopeful email to signing a professional driver contract proves that the right support and adaptive technology can turn dreams into reality.

The modifications to his race car aren't just helping Smith compete. They're opening doors for future drivers with disabilities and challenging what the motorsport world believes is possible.

Despite the heavy steering and intense eye-foot coordination required, Smith embraces the challenge with enthusiasm. "It's hard, but I love it and I'm quite keen to get it sorted," he said. "I'm motivated to get it done."

His ultimate goal is clear and historic: compete at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and become the first person ever to race professionally without arms.