Words do hurt.

Thomas Potter's journey is about far more than racing cars around a circuit. Through Words Do Hurt – Racing Against Bullying, he uses motorsport to bring businesses, communities and young people together around conversations that matter.

Over the past eight years Thomas has built an exceptional karting career, securing more than 100 race wins and six championships. His racing journey and message have reached millions of people online, earning recognition from figures and brands including Jenson Button and Aston Martin F1.

But success came with a cost. Competing on a limited budget made Thomas a target for negativity, online abuse and bullying, including messages encouraging him to take his own life. Rather than allowing those experiences to define him, he turned them into a message for others.

Thomas has spoken openly about his experiences and safeguarding concerns, helping strengthen conversations around safety in motorsport and encouraging young people to speak up. The family has received deeply personal feedback that Words Do Hurt has helped young people at points of serious suicidal distress.

Now aged 15, Thomas competes in the BRSCC Fiesta Junior Championship, Europe's largest junior car-racing series. His race car carries more than his name: a visible message about bullying, mental health, resilience and the importance of speaking up. Words Do Hurt is a driver-led platform using racing to start meaningful conversations, bring people together and take the message further.

“I helped people who were struggling by adding their names to my go-kart. Now it's time to add them to my car.”