Callum Smith, a 23-year-old finance assistant from Nuneaton, England, has become the world's only armless racing driver, utilizing a custom foot-steering system to achieve speeds over 110 mph. Smith was born without arms and has now signed his first professional driver contract with Team BRIT, an organization comprised entirely of disabled racers. His ambition is to become the first disabled competitor to race in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Smith's passion for motorsport ignited at age two, inspired by watching motorcycle racing with his grandfather. He completed his first track day in July 2025 at Donington Park, reaching 90 mph. In April of the same year, he achieved a top speed of 100 mph at Silverstone's GP circuit in his Audi A3. He is currently honing his skills in Team BRIT's modified BMW 1 Series at Donington Park, working towards obtaining his racing license.
"I’m going to be the first person to be racing without any arms, the first one ever," Smith stated. He credits his upbringing in a motorsport-focused family and his innate self-belief for driving his ambition. "Thankfully through Team BRIT, they recognise that and have given me my own opportunity not only to prove that but to also showcase my skills."
The unique steering mechanism was developed by Jim Doran Hand Controls. Smith uses his left foot to operate the steering plate, while his right foot manages the accelerator and brake. Additional controls for indicators and other functions are integrated via buttons accessible to his right foot. "I steer with my left foot. It’s a steering wheel in the footwell that operates the steering wheel," he explained.
Born with an unexplained bilateral upper-limb disability, Smith has consistently refused to let his condition limit his activities. He describes his feet as functioning like hands, enabling him to write, play video games like FIFA and Call of Duty, and even play the guitar. He also eats independently using standard cutlery.
His journey with Team BRIT began with an email expressing his interest. After a positive response, he successfully completed several tests, including a skid test, with instructors.
To earn his full racing license, Smith must demonstrate the ability to independently undo his harness and open the car door. He acknowledges the challenges, including the heavy steering in race cars and the demanding eye-to-foot coordination required. "Confidence I’m not short of, but it’s going to be a lot of hard work," he said.
Smith is joined at Team BRIT by Harvey Phillips, a 21-year-old quadruple amputee. Phillips, who lost limbs due to meningitis at nine months old, navigates a race car using a lever for acceleration and braking and a 3D-printed cup attached to his right arm for steering. Phillips aims to become comfortable with the car's race pace. The team's overarching objective is to be the first all-disabled team to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Both Smith and Phillips are actively seeking sponsorships to support their year-long training programs as Team BRIT pursues its goal of making motorsport history.