Thieves steal Jules Bianchi’s cherished go-kart in heartbreaking robbery
Philippe Bianchi is desperately searching for his late son’s stolen go-kart after thieves broke into the family’s property.
“Tonight we were robbed, and the thieves, without scruples, made off with 9 chassis JB17 Forever,” the heartbroken father shared on Facebook.
The thieves took nine karts belonging to the JB17 Forever foundation, but one particular theft has left the family devastated.
Jules Bianchi’s final kart before his move to single-seater racing—a KZ 125 ART GP model—was among the stolen items. This wasn’t just any racing machine; it was an irreplaceable piece of the former F1 driver’s legacy.
“Much more serious, they stole the last karting of Jules, a KZ 125 model ART GP, plus the mini karts of my grandsons,” Philippe wrote. “Except the value of the machines, it is the sentimental value that hurts us.”
He’s now reaching out to the karting community for help. “If you see JB17 karts in circulation, notify me. Thank you in advance.”
## Keeping Jules’ memory alive
After losing his son to injuries sustained during the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix, Philippe channeled his grief into something positive.
He created the Association Jules Bianchi with a beautiful mission—giving young drivers who can’t afford it a chance to pursue their racing dreams.
The foundation doesn’t just support upcoming racers financially. It promotes the values that made Jules special both on and off the track.
But their work extends beyond motorsport too.
The association works closely with L’Archet Hospital in Nice—where Jules received care after his accident—providing support and equipment to patients with serious head injuries and their families.
It’s a fitting tribute to a driver whose career was cut tragically short but whose impact continues to be felt throughout the racing world.
For anyone who spots the stolen karts or has information about the theft, Philippe Bianchi is asking you to contact him directly through his social media channels.
