Kush Maini: The First Indian Formula 2 Race Winner at Monaco — A Historic Motorsport Milestone

 


On May 24, 2025, Kush Maini made history by becoming the first Indian driver to win a Formula 2 race, triumphing at the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix. This landmark victory not only marks a personal milestone for the 24-year-old racer but also signals a transformative moment for Indian motorsport on the global stage.

A Masterclass at Monaco: Precision, Poise, and Perseverance:

Driving for DAMS Lucas Oil, Kush Maini delivered a flawless lights-to-flag performance in the highly competitive F2 Sprint Race. Starting from pole position due to the reverse-grid rule after qualifying 10th for the Feature Race, Maini led every lap on Monaco’s notoriously demanding street circuit. The tight corners and unforgiving barriers of Monaco require exceptional skill and mental fortitude—qualities Maini demonstrated with surgical precision, maintaining composure under relentless pressure from Alpine Academy teammate Gabriele Minì to finish two seconds clear at the checkered flag.

Maini’s victory was a testament to his maturity and racecraft, especially amid a challenging 2025 season start. Post-race, an emotional Kush said, “P1 and first Indian to win at Monaco. It’s a great honour and a dream come true. I want to thank DAMS and everyone who’s supported me. We kept believing, and it paid off”.

The Journey of an Indian Motorsport Prodigy:

Born in Bangalore in 2000, Kush Maini hails from a family deeply rooted in racing. His older brother Arjun Maini is also a professional driver, while his uncle Chetan Maini is a pioneering figure in India’s electric vehicle industry. Kush’s motorsport journey began in karting before progressing through the ranks of Italian F4, British F4, Formula Renault Eurocup, and BRDC British Formula 3, where he finished runner-up in 2020.

His steady ascent through junior categories culminated in his entry into Formula 2, where he joined DAMS Lucas Oil in 2025. Despite a slow start to the season, his Monaco win has injected fresh momentum into his campaign.

A Historic Win for Indian Motorsport:

Kush Maini’s Monaco victory is more than a personal achievement; it is a breakthrough for Indian motorsport, inspiring a new generation of racers. India has had Formula 1 drivers like Narain Karthikeyan and Karun Chandhok, but consistent success at the feeder series level has been limited. Maini’s win at one of the most iconic circuits in the world sends a powerful message: Indian drivers have the skill and determination to compete and win on the global stage.

Indian business leaders and motorsport patrons have celebrated this moment. Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group, praised Maini on social media, saying, “You are Standing Tall, @kmainiofficial and the country stands tall with you. Kush Maini making history as the 1st Indian winner of an F2 race in Monte Carlo. We are proud to have you on our team at @MahindraRacing”.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Formula 1:

Kush Maini is also a reserve driver for the BWT Alpine Formula 1 team and participates in their driver development program, gaining valuable experience through simulator work and team involvement. His historic Monaco win strengthens his prospects of breaking into Formula 1, potentially becoming the first Indian F1 driver since 2012.

With the confidence gained from Monaco, Maini aims to maintain consistency in upcoming races, including the next round in Barcelona. His journey reflects a blend of talent, resilience, and strategic support, positioning him as a promising figure in motorsport’s future.Find more Global Indian stories

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