The 2026 Steel City Cup, hosted by teenage racing star Rowan Campbell-Pilling, has announced this year’s finalists following another successful round of qualifying events, as he aims to raise over £5,000 for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity.
Sixteen Yorkshire-based companies, spanning 20 teams, went head-to-head over three qualifying racing events at Parkwood Karting in Neepsend.
Teams of four raced on a 470m track in a 20-minute qualifying session – setting grid positions, followed by a further 1 hour 40-minute race – competing in over 130 fast action laps.
The finalists, which have now been announced, are Airmaster Air Conditioning, Ellis Willis & Beckett, Gripple, H Harrold & Sons, Irwin Mitchell, Monaghans, Nal Plant, Taylor Emmet Solicitors (Rowan’s newest partner) and WPA Health Practice PLC.
These teams will return to Parkwood Karting on September 17 to raise further funds for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity and to compete for the coveted ‘Steel City Cup’ title.
Rowan said: “It’s been absolutely brilliant to be part of such an exciting tournament. Each business has wowed me with their unmatched dedication, stamina and passion.
“Throughout the competition, I’ve shared my racing tips and tricks and even got behind the wheel during one team’s final stint, where I set a new lap record. I’m now looking forward to seeing everyone again for the final.
“Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity is a charity which sits close to my heart and this championship is our way of giving back. We hope the money raised throughout this year’s Steel City Cup will help patients and their families.”
Rowan has been an ambassador for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity since 2022 and, to date, has raised over £35,000 for the charity.
The money has helped fund specialist medical equipment and new facilities to ensure the charity can provide the best possible treatment for its patients and match the world-class care they receive.
Rob Gurruchaga, Patrons and Ambassador Manager from The Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “We’re so pleased that the Steel City Cup has got off to such a strong start, with an impressive amount already raised. We can’t wait for the grand final in September!
“We’re grateful for Rowan’s continued support and we can’t thank him enough for being part of our team. The funds he raises makes a huge difference to the lives of our patients, families and staff.”
After two successful seasons in F4, Rowan is currently competing in the 2026 UK GB3 Championship with his team Xcel Motorsport.
So far this season, Rowan has won trophies at Hungaroring and Silverstone and he is currently ranking eighth overall in the official standings. His next race will be at Donington on September 3-6.
Rowan is proud of his roots and is eager to represent the Steel City, and the wider region, wherever he goes, proudly standing as Sheffield – and Yorkshire’s – only GB3 driver. Want to find out more about the impactful work of The Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity, learn here: https://sheffieldchildrens.org/