Two racing experts pose with a seated boy.

Get involved with Purple Sectors

Purple Sectors is a unique motorsport movement founded by F1, F2 and F3 commentator Chris McCarthy in support of Young Epilepsy.

Together with Jennie Gow – BBC F1 correspondent, pit lane reporter, journalist and author – and Neil Cole – renowned producer, director, presenter and motorsport broadcasting stalwart – Purple Sectors has gone from strength to strength.

The movement brings together some of the biggest names in motorsport, including drivers, sim racers, broadcasters and well-known personalities from across the racing world and beyond – all with the mission to race for a reason!

New for 2026!

The Purple Sectors Main Event takes place on Tuesday 10 November 2026 and will be streamed live from Simply Race, Milton Keynes.

Featuring 15 teams, 15 racing rigs and 15 high-profile team captains, competitors will battle it out in a series of intense virtual races throughout the evening.

Since its launch, the Purple Sectors main event has reached over 400,000 fans online with all money raised supporting young people living with epilepsy

With high-speed action, fierce rivalries, dramatic moments and the occasional cheeky tactic, Purple Sectors promises an unforgettable spectacle – whether you're experiencing the excitement in the room or tuning in from home.

So, who is Chris McCarthy?

After a seizure at 17 ended his dreams of becoming a Formula 1 driver, he pivoted to a successful career as a national and international motor racing commentator remaining in the sport he loves. Chris aims to inspire young people with epilepsy to pursue their passions despite challenges.

Read the blog

What an incredible opportunity to have had this evening, an amazing experience and for my boy with so little confidence to speak out like that!

Parent of Young Person who attended the event

Purple Sectors comes to CarFest!

If you're visiting CarFest, be sure to stop by the Purple Sectors Pop-Up.

Located within the StarFest TechLab, the Purple Sectors Pop-Up gives racing fans of all ages the chance to put their skills to the test on state-of-the-art racing simulators. Set your fastest lap, climb the leaderboard and, if you're lucky, go head-to-head with our celebrity team captains.

Across the weekend, renowned chef Tom Kerridge, double Olympian Matt Weston, and Formula 1 commentary legend David ‘Crofty’ Croft will take it turns to lead our daily competitors.

Tom Kerridge

David ‘Crofty’ Croft

Matt Weston

Whether you're a seasoned sim racer or trying it for the first time, it's your chance to experience the thrill of motorsport while supporting Young Epilepsy.

Have you got your CarFest tickets yet?