INDIA in F1

Category: F4

  • Ruhaan Alva bags a grand double in F4; Goa Aces JA Racing clinch IRL title

    Ruhaan Alva bags a grand double in F4; Goa Aces JA Racing clinch IRL title

    Coimbatore, 17 November 2024: Bengaluru’s racing star Ruhaan Alva of Shrachi Rarh Royal Bengal Tigers closed the championship in style bagging a grand double in the FIA Formula 4 Indian Championship while Raoul Hyman and Gabriela Jilkova not only delivered a 1-2 finish for Goa Aces JA Racing but also helped the team clinch the Indian Racing League championship as the curtains came down at the Kari Motor Speedway, here on Sunday.

    South African teenager Aqil Alibhai (Hyderabad Blackbirds) clinched the F4 title. Alva finished second in the Championship as the fifth and final round of the IRL promoted by Racing Promotions private limited concluded on Sunday.

    Alibhai, enjoying a successful season with six wins, had two podium finishes (P2 and P3) today which fetched sufficient points to win him the crown.

    South African teenager Aqil Alibhai (Hyderabad Blackbirds) clinched the F4 title

    Alva displayed rare sparks of aggression as he won the day’s first race starting from P5 on the reverse grid easily outpacing Alibhai and Divy Nandan (Bangalore Speedsters). He carried the momentum to win the next from P4 ahead of Canadian Hady Noah Mimassi (Chennai Turbo Riders) and Alibhai. In both races, the 18-year-old came up with a couple of daring moves to notch deserving wins.

    An unperturbed Alibhai played it smart. With one eye on the points, he was content to run in P2 behind Alva in the first race as the Indian took the honours by over nine seconds. Alibhai had enough lead on third-placed Nandan to survive a 10-second post-race penalty for a “infringement”.

    The P2 finish ensured Alibhai the championship as he led Alva by 29 points going into the final race which had a maximum of 26 on offer.

    For the several Indian drivers, the season in F4 was an eye-opener in the context of the level of competition at this level. The championship made it affordable for the home-grown racers to take the next step up in their racing careers and the experience should stand them in good stead going forward.

    Alibhai said: “I wanted to finish the season with a win, but it was not to be. But I have had a good season, and I am very happy to win the championship. Going forward, let’s see where this success takes me.”

    Indian Racing League

    Raoul Hyman tops IRL race as Goa Aces clinch title on Sunday at Kari Speedway. Photo by Rahul Reghu

    Raoul Hyman and Gabriela Jilkova not only delivered a 1-2 finish for Goa Aces JA Racing but also helped the team clinch the Indian Racing League championship. There was icing on Goa Aces’ cake too as the team also won the car championship to finish the season with a memorable double.

    Going into the final race which began after sharp showers, the Goa Aces led Shrachi Rarh Royal Bengal Tigers by just two points, but the latter virtually handed over the championship on a platter within seconds after the race commenced from a rolling start following a crash.

    Ruhaan Alva, sandwiched between pole-sitter Hyman and Jilkova in P2, lost the rear of his car, slid across the track and rammed into Akash Gowda (Speed Demons Delhi) just as they approached the start-finish line, leading to their retirement. The Safety Car made a brief appearance before racing resumed.

    Thereafter, Hyman and Jilkova cruised along without any serious challenge with the former eventually winning by 28 seconds as they came up with a 1-2 finish for their team which followed yesterday’s win by their team-mate Sohil Shah. Mohd Ryan (Chennai Turbo Riders) completed the podium.

    The second Shrachi Rarh Royal Bengal Tigers car, driven by Malaysian Alister Yoong, finished a distant seventh.

    “We are very happy for the 1-2 finish. We are grateful to the team for giving us cars that won the races for us. It is their hardwork which enabled us to win the championship,” said Hyman.

    The two-day Indian Racing Festival was sponsored by Kingfisher Soda, JK Tyres, Mobil 1 and Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Limited.

    The results (Provisional):

    John Abraham with Goa Aces Team Medium

    Indian Racing League (Race-2, Driver-B) 25 mins+1 lap:1. Raul Hyman (UK, Goa Aces JA Racing) (26:39.020); 2.Gabriela Jilkova (Czech Republic, Goa Aces JA Racing) (27:07.684);3. Mohamed Ryan (India, Chennai Turbo Riders) (27:29.813). Best Lap:Raoul Hyman (01:10.359).

    Formula 4 Indian Open (Race-2, 25mins+1 lap):1. Ruhaan Alva (India, Shrachi Rarh Royal Bengal Tigers) (26:55.114);2. Aqil Alibhai (South Africa, Hyderabad Blackbirds) (27:14.880);3. Divy Nandan (India, Bangalore Speedsters) (27:24.987).Best Lap:Ruhaan Alva (01:06.492).

    Race-3:1. Ruhaan Alva (India, Shrachi Rarh Royal Bengal Tigers) (27:00.884);2. Hady Noah Mimassi (Canada, Chennai Turbo Riders) (27:10.373);3. Aqil Alibhai (South Africa, Hyderabad Blackbirds) (27:16.425).Best Lap:RuhaanAlva (01:06.386).

  • Sohil Shah aces the field for maiden win in Indian Racing League

    Sohil Shah aces the field for maiden win in Indian Racing League

    Coimbatore, 16 Nov 2024: Championship contenders Goa Aces JA Racing received a massive boost when Sohil Shah destroyed a high-quality field and delivered a hat-trick of pole position, race win and best lap, in the Round 5 of the Indian Racing League at the Kari Motor Speedway here on Saturday.

    It was 23-year-old Shah’s first win in the Indian Racing League which is promoted by the Racing Promotions private limited. He did it in style beating the likes of veterans Neel Jani of Black Birds Hyderabad and Alvaro Parente of Speed Demons Delhi, who came in second and third respectively. However, Parente was docked a five-second penalty for a “infringement”and was pushed to P4 with Jon Lancaster of Chennai Turbo Riders moving upa spot to P3.

    The winning margin of 17.156 seconds underlined the dominating performance by the Bengalurean that came on the back of several podium finishes this season.

    With the sun out and track almost fully dry following rains earlier in the day, it was Shah who roared away from the rolling start and with every lap increased his lead over Jaani, Lancaster and Parente who got involved in a close battle.

    In the latter half of the race, Lancaster slowed down with an engine issue, giving up his P3 spot to Parente. Up the road, Shah kept increasing the lead, followed by Jaani and Parente and the trio finished in that order while Lancaster came in fourth, but subsequently moved up to third as the Portuguese driver was penalized for an infringement.

    Behind the front-runners, Shah’s team-mate Shahan Ali Mohsin finished an impressive fifth after starting from P12 to bring more cheer to Goa Aces JA Racing team. However, Shahan dropped to seventh following a 20-second penalty for a “infringement”.

    “I am very happy with this win today after several podium finishes. It was a good race and am pleased with my performance as the grid had top drivers like Jaani, Parente and Lancaster,” said Shah.

    The two-day Indian Racing Festival, sponsored by Kingfisher Soda, JK Tyres, Mobil 1 and Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Limited.

    Formula 4 Indian Championship

    South African Aqil Alibhai (Black Birds Hyderabad) came up with yet another brilliant drive on a drying Kari Motor Speedway track to post his sixth overall and fifth win in a row to consolidate his spot on top of the leaderboard in the FIA-certified Formula 4 Indian Championship.

    Finishing in P2 was his closest rival,Ruhaan Alva (SrachiRarh Royal Bengal Tigers) who wasted a pole-position start while Canadian Hady Noah Mimassi(Chennai Turbo Riders) completed the podium while also winning the Rookie award besides clocking the best lap of the race.

    At the start, Alva made a poor getaway and left the door open at Turn-1 for Alibhai to forge ahead. Thereafter, the South African maintained his lead, literally tiptoeing past the water patches and later the back markers. Behind him Alva settled in second place unable to come close to making a move on Alibhai while Mimassicouldn’t make much headawayand had to be content with P3.

    Reflecting on his performance today, Alibhai said: “I am happy to win today. I had a good start but had to be careful due to the water on the track. Towards the end, others were catching up, but I managed to maintain my lead and want to maintain the momentum tomorrow and win the championship.”

    27thJK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championship

    Starting from P2 on the grid, Bengaluru’s Tijil Rao (Dark Don Racing) pulled off yet another win to move closer to the championship title in the 27th JK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championship on Saturday at the Kari Motor Speedway.

    In a close LGB Formula 4 race, Tijil held off a strong challenge from Chennai’s Saran Vikram Tmars (Momentum Motorsports) while Rookie Dhruvh Goswami (MSPORT) from Bengaluru finished third.Meanwhile, as many as seven drivers failed to finish the incident-filled race.

    Royal Enfield Continental GT Cup

    Championship leader Navaneeth Kumar S from Puducherry consolidated his position on the points table with one win and a P2 finish in the Royal Enfield Continental GT Cup. His arch-rival, Rohan R from Coimbatore matched the performance to remain in title contention.

    Meanwhile, Bengaluru’s Yogesh P also notched a double in the Amateurs category to seal the championship in this class.

    The results (Provisional):

    Indian Racing League (Race-1, Driver-A) 25 mins+1 lap:1. Sohil Shah (India, Goa Aces JA Racing) (26mins, 34.598secs);2. Neel Jani (Switzerland, Black Birds Hyderabad) (26:51.754);3.Jon Lancaster (UK, Chennai Turbo Riders) (26:54.848).Best Lap:Sohil Shah (01:03.088).

    Formula 4 Indian Open (Race-1, 25mins+1 lap):1. Aqil Alibhai (South Africa, Black Birds Hyderabad) (26:14.474);2. Ruhan Alva (India, ShrachiRarh Royal Bengal Tigers) (26:15.614);3. Hady Noah Mimassi (Canada, Chennai Turbo Riders) (26:17.254).Best Lap:Mimassi(01:10.638).

    JK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championship:

    LGB Formula 4 (Race-1, 15 laps):1. Tijil Rao (Bengaluru, Dark Don Racing) (22:02.750);2. Saran Vikram Tmars (Chennai, Momentum Motorsports) (23:03.725);3.Dhruvh Goswami (Bengaluru, MSPORT) (23:04.504).Rookie: 1. Dhruvh Goswami (23:04.504); 2. Abhay Mohan (Bengaluru, 23:06.147); 3. Neythan McPherson (Pune, Momentum Motorsports) (23:08.494).

    Royal Enfield Continental GT Cup (Race-1, 9 laps) – Professionals: 1.Rohan R (Coimbatore) (11:44.984);2. Navaneeth Kumar S (Puducherry) (11:45.320);3. Anish Shetty (Bengaluru) (11:45.470).Amateurs:1. Yogesh P (Bengaluru) (12:16.480); 2. Johring Warisa (Umrangso) (12:16.891); Johnson Saldanha (Mangaluru) (12:22.450).

    Race-2 (6 laps) – Professionals:1. Navaneeth Kumar S (07:48.397);2.Anish Shetty (07:50.894);3. Rohan R (07:51.227).Amateurs:1. Yogesh P (Bengaluru) (08:08.594); 2. Johring Warisa (08:10.664); 3. Johnson Saldanha (08:21.798).

  • Ruhaan Alva, Veer Sheth, Alibhai win a race each: Indian F4

    Ruhaan Alva, Veer Sheth, Alibhai win a race each: Indian F4

    Chennai, 15 Sept. 2024: Jaden Pariat ‘won’ on the track, but was stripped away and demoted to P8 in Race 3, as the final day of Round 3 of the Formula 4 Indian Championship, produced three different winners in three races held on Sunday.

    The premier F4 championship was held along with the Indian Racing League and the JK Tyre National Racing Championship at the Madras International Circuit, Irungattukottai, near here.

    Ruhaan Alva of Shrach Rarh Bengal Tigers, Veer Sheth of Ahmedabad Apex Racers, who moved up from P2 to P1 after Bangalore Speedsters’ racer winner Jaden Pariat was docked a 20-second penalty, and South African Aqil Alibhai (Black Birds Hyderabad), all won a race each in the three F4 races today. Jaden won the Indian F4 Race 1 on Saturday.

    From left – Isaac Demellweek, Aqil Alibhai, Ruhaan’s team principal, Ruhaan Alva and Jaden Pariat at MIC on Sunday. Photo by IRL

    In the day’s first race, Alva was in a league of his once he moved to the front in the very first lap and was simply unstoppable. As the race progressed, Australian teenager Isaac Demellweek (Chennai Turbo Riders), Alibhai, Pariat and pole-sitter Aiva Anagnostiadis (Goa Aces JA Racing), the 2021 Australian female karting champion, settled into a formation behind Alva until the Safety Car came into play in the 15th minute which bunched up the grid. On resumption with close to two minutes and one lap left, Alibhai and Pariat jumped to P2 and P3 behind Alva who continued serenely to victory while also being credited with the fastest lap of the race.

    IRL cars lined up at MIC on Sunday. Photos IRL

    In the next race, it was Pariat all the way after surviving a contact with Alibhai while trying to regain his track position. The incident pushed Alibhai to P16 but he finished P4 eventually. Pariat was docked a post-race 20-second penalty “for causing avoidable collision” and it dropped him to eighth in the final standings. Consequently, Veer Sheth, Ruhaan Alva and Abhay Mohan (Bangalore Speedsters) all moved up a spot to finish first, second and third, respectively.

    In the final race, Alibhai built a winning lead after moving from P3 to P1 before Turn-1 in the very first lap and enjoyed a trouble-free run to spare nearly 19 seconds to second-placed Divy Nandan (Ahmedabad Apex Racers) and Ruhaan Alva who did well to hold off an aggressive Pariat in the latter half of the race.

    IRL

    Mohammed Ryan converted a pole position start to a maiden win while delivering a double for Chennai Turbo Riders the Indian Racing League races. The 22-year-old Ryan’s win came on the back of team-mate Jon Lancaster’s success in IRL Race-1 yesterday.

    Mohd Rayan takes a win from pole in the IRL race on Sunday at MIC. Photos supplied by IRL

    The 2019 Rotax Karting champion Ryan, racing on home circuit, had a brilliant start and put in consistent fast laps for his first win in the IRL which triggered celebrations in the Chennai Turbo Riders.

    While Ryan disappeared into the distance at the start, Sohil Shah (Goa Aces JA Racing) moved aggressively past Jaden Pariat (Bangalore Speedsters) going into Turn-1. Pariat then dropped one more spot when team-mate Rishon Rajeev got a jump on him later in the opening lap. The top three then maintained their track positions without much ado, while behind them others scrapped for points.

    An elated Ryan said: “I had a good start and kept my focus to put some consistent laps. I am happy that my team, Chennai Turbo Riders won both the IRL races this weekend and picked up some big points.”

    The Indian Racing League and Indian F4 Championship, to be held over five rounds, is sponsored by Kingfisher Soda, JK Tyres, Mobil 1 and Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Limited.

    JK Tyre-fmsci Indian National Championship

    Bengaluru’s Tijil Rao led a podium sweep for Dark Don Racing team as he came up with a brilliant drive starting from P5 for his third win in six starts this season.

    Finishing behind him were team-mates Viswas Vijayaraj from Nellore and Coimbatore’s Bala Prasath. Despite losing the front nose cone of his car, Bala Prasath gave a fine exhibition of defensive driving to hold off rookie and Bengaluru teenager Dhruv Goswami (MSPORT) over the last three of the 10-lap race.

    Goswami, in fact, started from P12 on the grid and aided by some daring overtakes, all but managed to secure a podium spot in the overall standings, though he topped the Rookie category, way ahead of Monith Kumaran (Ahura Racing) and Abhinav Reddy (Avalanche Racing).

    The weekend results put Tijil Rao on top of the overall leaderboard while Goswami also moved up the championship standings in the Rookie category.

    The Round 4 of the Indian Racing Festival will be held on October 19-20 at the Kari Motor Speedway, Coimbatore.

    The results (Provisional):

    Veer Seth, was promoted as the winner of Indian F4 Championship Race 3 at MIC on Sunday.

    Indian Racing League: Race-2 (B Driver) (25 minutes + 1 Lap):1. Mohammed Ryan (India, Chennai Turbo Riders) (26mins, 57.602secs);2. Sohil Shah (India, Goa Aces JA Racing) (26:59.183);3. Rishon Rajeev (India, Bangalore Speedsters) (27:14.841).

    Formula 4 Indian (25mins + 1 Lap):

    Race-2:1. Ruhaan Alva (India, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers) (28:16.720); 2. Aqil Alibhai (South Africa, Black Birds Hyderabad) (28:17.475); 3. Jaden Pariat (India, Bangalore Speedsters) (28:18.697).

    Race-3: 1.Veer Sheth (India, Ahmedabad Apex Racers) (27:41.457); 2. Ruhaan Alva (India, ShrachiRarh Bengal Tigers) (27:41.622); 3. Abhay Mohan (India, Bangalore Speedsters) (27:43.916).

    Race-4: 1. Aqil Alibhai (South Africa, Black Birds Hyderabad) (27:31.329); 2. Divy Nandan (India, Ahmedabad Apex Racers) (27:50.567); 3. Ruhaan Alva (India, ShrachiRarh Bengal Tigers) (27:51.089).

    JK Tyre-FMSCI Indian National Racing Championship:

    Formula LGB 4: Race-3 (10 Laps):1. Tijil Rao (Bengaluru, Dark Don Racing) (19:42.876); 2. Viswas Vijayaraj (Nellore, Dark Don Racing) (19:44.762); 3. Bala Prasath (Coimbatore, Dark Don Racing) (19:52.697).

    Rookie: 1. Dhruvh Goswami (Bengaluru, MSport) (19:52.770); 2. Monith Kumaran (Chennai, Ahura Racing) (19:59.569); 3. K Abhinav Reddy (Hyderabad, Avalanche Racing) (20:05.030).

  • Jaden Pariat takes brilliant win in Indian F4; Abhay Mohan takes creditable 3rd

    Jaden Pariat takes brilliant win in Indian F4; Abhay Mohan takes creditable 3rd

    Chennai, 14 Sept. 2024: Teenager from Shillong Jaden Pariat took a brilliant victory, his second in the championship while team-mate 16-year-old Abhay Mohan from Bengaluru, in his first full single-seater season, come third behind South African Aqil Alibhai (Black Birds Hyderabad) to provide their team, Bangalore Speedsters, a creditable double podium on Day One of the third round of the Indian F4 Championship at the Madras International Circuit, here on Saturday.

    The Indian Racing League promoted by Racing Promotions private limited, was also held along with the JK Tyre National Racing Championship 2024.

    Off to a clean start from pole position, 17-year-old Pariat, winner here in Round 1, and National champion in the MRF F2000 class, never looked back for a lights-to-flag win. Behind him, Alibhai settled into P2 from Lap 1 to the finish, not having the pace to trouble Pariat who also put in the fastest lap of the race, a blistering one minute, 40.459 seconds.

    Jaden Pariat celebrates after winning the F4 Indian race at MIC on Saturday. IRL photo

    Down the grid, battles raged up for track positions. Abhay Mohan, winner of the National title in the MRF F1600 category earlier this summer, started from P5 but immediately gained a spot when Veer Sheth (Ahmedabad Apex Racers) stalled on the grid and dropped to last. Abhay, the Class 12 NIOS student, then put fellow-Bengalurean Ruhaan Alva (ShrachiRarh Bengal Tigers) under pressure before passing for P3, a position he comfortably held to the finish. Alva eventually came in fifth.

    Down the road, Gurugram’s Divy Nandan (Ahmedabad Apex Racers) put in an impressive show to climb from P16 to eventual P7 finish.

    Ruhaan Alva impressive, but loses top spot in the last lap

    With a fastest lap timing and leading the race until few corners from the finish, ShrachiRarh Bengal Tiger’s Ruhaan Alva slipped to third position with a gearbox issue and home favourite Chennai Turbo Rider’s Jon Lancaster, made the best of the opportunity to finish on the top step of the podium

    The 35-year-old Lancasterfrom UK and representing Chennai Turbo Riders in this franchise-based Indian Racing League championship, was running about four seconds behind Alva in the last lap of the race (A Drirver), but lady luck smiled on him when disaster struck Alva a few corners from the finish, allowing him to take the win ahead of Czech Republic’s Gabriela Jilkova (Goa Aces JA Racing). Alva, who had started from pole position and built a winning lead, managed to limp home in thirdplace in a race that was his to lose.

    With a win in sight and less than a lap left for the finish, the 18-year-old Ruhaan came across a car that had spun across the track. He slowed down and passed the stricken car only to meet with disaster as the engine spluttered and the gear got stuck in third. It allowed Lancaster and Jilkovato pass him.

    At the start, Alva made a good getawaywhile his team-mate, Malaysian Allister Yoong dropped two spots from P2 as Lancaster and Jilkova slipped past in the very first lap. Their positions remained unchanged until the last lap when Alva blew away a certain victory.

    Gabriela Jillkova, takes a deserving second place, racing on equal footing with men in the IRL at MIC on Saturday. An IRL image

    “You got to take the opportunities,” was how Lancaster commented after the win. “It was

    The Indian Racing Festival, to be held over five rounds, is sponsored by Kingfisher Soda, JK Tyres, Mobil 1 and Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Limited.

    JK Tyre-Fmsci Indian National Racing Championship 2024

    Coimbatore’s Bala Prasath led a 1-2 finish for Dark Don after starting P3 on the 24-car grid in Race-1 of Formula LGB, that was twice interrupted by Safety Car due to on-track incidents. Following him home was Tijil Rao from Bengaluru ahead of Ahura Racing’s Chetan Surineni, also from Bengaluru. It was the second win of the season for Bala Prasath.

    Likewise, Abhay Mohan, who showed impressive pace for his second win, and Dhruvh Goswami, both from Bengaluru, delivered a 1-2 result for MSport while Hyderabad’s Abhinav Reddy (Avalanche Racing) completed the podium in the Rookie class.

    At the start of the race, pole-sitter Viswas Vijayaraj (Dark Don Racing) led the pack for a couple of laps before the Safety Car was deployed. On resumption, Vijayaraj slid to third behind Bala Prasath who put in some quick laps to gain the lead ahead of Tijil Rao who had led briefly. The order remained unchanged for a couple of laps until Surineni made a move on Vijayaraj to take P3 before the second Safety Car period. The race ended behind the Safety Car with Bala Prasath taking a win from Tijil Rao and Surineni.

    Later, in Race-2 that was red-flagged twice and reduced to five laps, Chetan Surineni took the honours, holding off Bala Prasath and Viswas Vijayaraj. In the Rookie class, Bengaluru’s Dhruvh Goswami finished first ahead of Abhinav Reddy and Pune’s Neythan McPherson (Momentum Motorsport).

    The results (Provisional):

    Indian Racing League:

    Race-1 (Driver A, 25mins + 1 Lap):1. Jon Lancaster (UK, Chennai Turbo Riders) (27mins, 11.213secs);2. Gabriela Jilkova (Czech Republic, Goa Aces JA Racing) (27:12.428);3. Ruhaan Alva (India, ShrachiRarh Bengal Tigers) (27:14.554).

    Formula 4 Indian – Race-1 (25mins + 1 Lap):1. Jaden Pariat (India, Bangalore Speedsters) (26:57.528);2. Aqil Alibhai (South Africa, Black Birds, Hyderabad) (27:02.059);3. Abhay Mohan (India, Bangalore Speedsters) (27:20.546).

    JK Tyre-FMSCI Indian National Racing Championship:

    Formula LGB 4 (Race-1, 8 laps):1. Bala Prasath (Coimbatore, Dark Don Racing) (17:58.987); 2. Tijil Rao (Bengaluru, Dark Don Racing) (17:59.833); 3. Chetan Surineni (Bengaluru, Ahura Racing) (18:00.288).

    Rookie: Abhay Mohan (Bengaluru, MSport) (18:01.848);2. Dhruvh Goswami (Bengaluru, MSport) (18:02.402); 3.  K Abhinav Reddy (Hyderabad, Avalanche Racing) (18:06.581).

    Race-2 (5 laps):1. Chetan Surineni (Bengaluru, Ahura Racing) (09:58.945); 2. Bala Prasath (Coimbatore, Dark Don Racing) (09:58.967); 3. Viswas Vijayaraj (Nellore, Dark Don Racing) (10:00.099).

    Rookie: 1. Dhruvh Goswami (Bengaluru, MSport) (10:06.569); 2. Abhinav Reddy (Hyderabad, Avalanche Racing) (10:14.306); 3, Neythan McPherson (Pune, Momentum Motorsport) (10:14.529).

  • IRL returns to MIC; Barter skips Round 3 which begins on Saturday

    IRL returns to MIC; Barter skips Round 3 which begins on Saturday

    Chennai, 13 Sept. 2024: The Indian Racing League 2024 and the Formula 4 Indian Championship returns to the Madras International Circuit for the third round to be run on September 14 and 15.

    Promoted by Racing Promotions Private Limited (RPPL) the IRL contested by six teams with the Shirachi Rarh Bengal Tigers being the most consistent, leading the points table with one win and three podium finishes.

    The two-day event which was initially scheduled to be run at Coimbatore was shifted to Chennai due to concerns about safety barriers and will also see the JK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championships including the Formula LGB 4 races. The first round of IRL and Indian F4 was held at MIC followed by the historic night races on the Chennai Formula Racing Circuit, a street circuit in the heart of Chennai.

    The four IRL races over two rounds, saw outright wins by four different teams, Chennai Turbo Riders, Shirachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, Goa Aces JA Racing and Speed Demons Delhi. 

    Each team has four drivers, including one female racer, who share two Aprilia-powered World Thunder GB08s that are capable of top speeds of 240 Kmh.

    Leading Indian racers in the IRL include Akhil Rabindra and Ruhaan Alva besides Jaden Rahaman Pariat, Sai Sanjay and Sandep Kumar, who all have won National titles. Youngsters like Divy Nandan and Rishon Rajeev are also doing well in the Indian F4 championships. There is also representation from Australia, Spain, Czech Republic, Denmark, Portugal, South Africa and Germany, injecting international flavour.

    The Indian Racing Festival, to be held over five rounds, is sponsored by Kingfisher Soda, JK Tyres, Mobil 1 and Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Limited. All these races will be live on Start Sports and Fancode. Fans can buy tickets from Paytm Insider.

    Formula 4 Indian Championship

    A notable absentee in Round 3 of the Formula 4 Indian category is Japanese born, Australian youngster Hugh Barter who dominated the two rounds. That should open the field considerably with the likes of Bengaluru teenager Ruhaan Alva (Schirach Rarh Bengal Tigers) and South African Aqil Alibhai (Hyderabad Black Birds) being the top contenders. 

    JK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championship 

    The popular Formula LGB 4 category, which has always attracted a big grid, will be no different in Round 3 with 26 drivers in the fray. Leading the pack in the championship standings is Bengaluru’s Tijil Rao followed by his Dark Don team-mate Diljith TS from Thrissur. Tijil, known for his daring drives, has two wins to Diljith’s one. Their team-mate Bala Prasath took the honors in the very first race to herald Dark Don team’s domination.

    JK Tyre-FMSCI Indian National Racing Championship

    Round 2 of the 29th JK Tyre-FMSCI Indian National Racing Championship happened at the Chennai Formula Racing Circuit, thus becoming the first domestic motor racing competition to run a night street circuit race. Earlier, the JK races were also held at the inaugural street race in Hyderabad along with IRL

    Spread over two races, with 24 competitors competing in the Formula LGB4 Class, the event witnessed Dark Don Racing continue their brilliant start to the season, courtesy of Diljith TS’s victory in Race 1. Diljith retained a podium finish in Race 2, finishing P2 behind second-time winner Tijil Rao, who, with 31 points, leads the Drivers’ Standings after two rounds. Meanwhile, Dark Don Racing extended their lead at the top of the Teams’ Standings to 65 points, nearly twice as much as their closest challenger MSport. 

    Furthermore, Neythan McPherson’s twin P1s in the LGB4 Rookie segment saw him tie Abhay M at the summit of the leaderboard, both drivers accumulating 34 points until now. 

  • Ruhaan Alva, Divy Nandan bag second place each: Indian F4

    Ruhaan Alva, Divy Nandan bag second place each: Indian F4

    Chennai, 1 Sept. 2024: Two Indian drivers Bengaluru’s Ruhaan Alva  driving for Bengal Tigers and Delhi’s Divy Nandan racing for Ahmedabad Apex Racers, notched up creditable second places in Race 1 and Race 2 respectively, even as Australian Hugh Barter of Godspeed Kochi and South African Aqil Alibhai of Hyderabad Blackbirds wrote their own script to share the day’s honours in the FIA-Formula 4 Indian Championship at the Chennai Formula Racing Circuit under floodlights here on Sunday.

    Starting from pole position, Barter topped Race 1 in typical style, outpacing the field, in another flawless exhibition that underlined his undoubted talent. In contrast, Alibhai, who missed Race-1 due to issues with his car, made ample amends by winning Race 2 after starting fourth on the grid, and, in the process, displaying considerable skill in defensive driving.

    Barter, who last weekend had won a race starting last on the grid, was unstoppable while winning the first race that was marred by two Safety Car periods and then a red flag with little over three minutes and a lap left. Meanwhile, Abhay Mohan (Bangalore Speedsters) quietly moved to P4 from P8 and then jumped to third place behind Barter and Ruhaan Alva Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers) as Jaden Pariat (Bangalore Speedsters) retired, bringing out the Safety Car for the third time with about six minutes and a lap left of the race. The proceedings were yet again interrupted by a red flag with about 3:30 plus one lap remaining following an incident.

    Ruhaan Alva, who finished a creditable P2 in F4 Race 1 receiving the trophy. An IRL image

    Unable to complete second qualifying session, Barter started Race 2 from the end of the grid, but in no time, climbed to fifth before tangling with Ruhaan Alva and dropped to eighth. Ahead of them, Alibhai made three spots to take the lead which he defended with aplomb to win from two Indians, Divy Nandan and Jaden Pariat as the race ended behind the Safety Car. Alva finished fourth while Barter came in fifth.

    The results (Provisional):

    FIA Formula 4 Indian Championship (25mins + 1 lap)

    Race 1

    1. Hugh Barter (Australia, Godspeed Kochi) (19:42.952);

    2. Ruhaan Alva (India, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers) (19:50.251);

    3. Abhay Mohan (India, Bangalore Speedsters) (20:09.021).

    Race 2

    1. Aqil Alibhai (South Africa, Blackbirds Hyderabad) (30:03.445);

    2. Divy Nandan (India, Ahmedabad Apex Racers) (30:03.704);

    3. Jaden Pariat (India, Bangalore Speedsters) (30:04.413).

    Diljit, Tijil Rao share honours

    JK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championship 2024

    Dark Don team enjoyed a profitable weekend as Diljith TS from Thrissur and Bengaluru’s Tijil Rao won a race apiece in the Formula LGB 4 category, but both had to work hard for their P1 slots on the podium.

    Race-1 was a close fight between pole-sitter Pune’s Neython McPherson (Momentum Motorsports) and Diljith as the two exchanged leads early on. However, the more experienced Diljith managed to secure a slender lead that he nursed to the finish despite a Safety Car period, to finish ahead of McPherson. Behind them, Tijil Rao, having started from P8, moved up to P3, showing impressive pace, but could not make further progress as the eight-lap race was reduced to six after a red flag stoppage.

    Later in the day, under lights, Tijil Rao came up with another fine drive to upstage Diljith after the two traded lead through the 10-lap race that saw two Safety Car periods. Eventually, Tijil made a decisive move on front-running Diljith to take his second win in the championship. Diljith had to be content with P2, ahead of McPherson.

    The results (Provisional):

    JK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championship (Formula LGB 4) – Race-1 (5 laps): 1. Diljith TS (Thrissur, Dark Don Racing) (11:48.827); 2. Neythan McPherson (Pune, Momentum Motorsports) (11:48.973); 3. Tijil Rao (Bengaluru, Dark Don Racing) (11:50.800). Rookie: 1. McPherson (11:48.973); 2. Abhay Mohan (Bengaluru, MSPORT) (11:53.785); 3. Ashok Lal (Bengaluru, Avalanche Racing) (12:01.039).

     Race-2 (10 laps): 1. Tiljil Rao (27:03.653); 2. Diljith TS (27:03.964); 3. Neythan McPherson (27:04.402). Rookie: 1. McPherson (27:04.402); 2. Abhay Mohan (27:07.408); 3. Dhruvh Goswami (Bengaluru, MSPORT) (27:09.599).

  • Finally, Chennai Formula Racing Circuit gets going after some delay

    Finally, Chennai Formula Racing Circuit gets going after some delay

    Chennai, 31 August 2024: The proceedings at the first Night Race in the country, on the new Chennai Formula Racing Circuit, got delayed on Saturday as the homologation by the international Federation, the FIA, was not completed on time.

    The FIA Circuit Commission member, Giuseppe Muscioni, inspected the track and suggested some changes on Friday due to safety concerns. However, the organisers took time to make the corrections and sessions of the second round of the Indian Racing League and the Indian F4 Championship got delayed. The races were expected to go around the streets of Chennai with a perfect backdrop of the iconic Island Ground under the twinkling starlight.

    The 3.5-km street circuit features 19 turns, multiple chicane and fast straights, including the striking Napier Bridge, painted in a chequered flag design and then the drivers will go by the War Memorial.

    Supported by the Tamil Nadu government, the race on Sunday to elevate Chennai, the cradle of motorsports in India to the motorsport capital of the country. Turn 18 and Turn 10 had some concerns.

    Later, Tamil Nadu Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin inaugurated the event and the practice sessions took place late in the night.

    The main races are scheduled for Sunday.

  • Indian F4 and IRL: Chennai is all set for historic night races

    Indian F4 and IRL: Chennai is all set for historic night races

    Chennai, 30 August 2024: The Indian Racing Festival 2024 edition is all set to revv up for the country’s first-ever night race, as Chennai gears up for an electrifying weekend that promises to make history with a perfect backdrop of the iconic Island Ground under the twinkling starlight.

    Nestled in the heart of this vibrant metropolis, the 3.5-km street circuit features 19 turns, multiple chicane and fast straights, including the striking Napier Bridge, painted in a chequered flag design as the zooming formula cars and the drivers will zoom by the War Memorial. Presented by Kingfisher Soda and promoted by Racing Promotions private limited, the night race will be nothing short of a spectacle and a monumental step forward for Indian motorsports.

    Supported by the Tamil Nadu government, this race aims to elevate Chennai’s status as a motorsport capital by offering fans an unparalleled experience. With packed houses in attendance having close to 9,000 spectators the streets of Chennai will be transforming itself to etch themselves among the global few when it comes to having Night Street Circuit in the world.

    IRL Press meet, from left: Jon Lancaster, Ruhaan Alva, Gabriella Jikova, Raoul Hyman, Hugh Barter, Mohd Ryan, Chethan Korada at a hotel in Chennai on 30 Aug 2024. IRL photo

    Dr. Atulya Misra, Additional Chief Secretary to Youth Welfare and Sports Development said: “Lot of efforts have been undertaken to bring this milestone night circuit to life in the streets of Chennai. It is not only a prestigious moment for India but will also propel Chennai and Tamil Nadu in the global map as a strong Motorsports destination. While every effort is going into the smooth execution of the race and create a thrilling street circuit which will not only be a spectacle to watch out for but also will be as competitive as one can imagine. This is not just a race; it’s a celebration of speed, skill, and the spirit of Chennai.”

    With IRL cars expected to exceed speeds of 200 kmh, the street track is set to push drivers to their limits as they strive to master the circuit configurations and manoeuvre for maximum speed and impact and on the grid which rums amidst multiple landmarks such as the centuries-old Fort St. George and the renowned Marina Beach in the whole stretch.

    “We have done the hard yards to ensure that spectators enjoy the races in comfort and safety, and we are hopeful that India will be able to witness a grand success. We are indeed grateful to the Government of Tamil Nadu, the SDAT team, and every other department that helped us to put this landmark race together,” said Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman and Managing Director of Racing Promotions Private Limited (RPPL), promoters of IRF.

    As the excitement builds for the upcoming Indian Racing League event, some of the participating racers shared their thoughts on what this moment means to them. Their words reflect not only their passion for the sport but also the significance of the event in the broader context of Indian motorsport.

    The six city-based franchise teams of Indian Racing League (IRL)– Chennai Turbo Chargers, Goa Aces JA Racing, Speed Demons Delhi, Bangalore Speedsters, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, and Hyderabad Blackbirds along with eight teams (includes six teams of IRL and two more teams. Ahmedabad Apex Racers and Godspeed Kochi)  will be speeding as part of the FIA Formula 4 India Championships, are all charged up for this historic weekend.

    Chetan Korada, the first Asian racer ever to win a race using prosthetic feet. Photo by Srinivasa Krishnan

    Chethan Korada, the first Asian racer ever to win a race using prosthetic feet expressed his excitement on getting an opportunity to drive at the night circuit said,”It’s a great honor to be part of this event, and I’m deeply grateful to the government for this incredible opportunity. Racing has been my passion for the last 18 years, and I’ve competed in nearly every motorsport during that time. Reaching this point hasn’t been easy, and I want to thank Arman Ibrahim for the scholarship that made this possible. Racing on roads I’ve known since childhood is truly a dream come true, and I’m looking forward to the race.”

    With experience of driving as part of European Formula 4 teams, India origin driver, Nikhil Bohra who is representing Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers said, “It is such a glamorous event that is not only a statement for Indian motorsport, but it’s just a statement around the world. I mean, to do this in a country with over one billion people is next level. I just have a huge respect for everyone who put this together. So, thank you for inviting me back, and I’m looking forward to this weekend.

    The Goa Aces woman driver, Gabriela Jikova, who got a podium in Round 1 at the Press Conference on Friday. Photos by Srinivasa Krishnan

    The Goa Aces woman driver, Gabriela Jikova who had a podium finish in Round 1 said, “Motorsport, much like on the men’s side, has traditionally been male-dominated, but we’re seeing a significant change. Today, more women are getting involved, and this is evident in the Indian Racing League, where we have a growing number of female participants. Comparing it to my early days in karting, there were far fewer girls back then. It’s exciting to see women’s motorsport growing, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it. We’re doing our best on the track, and I believe we’re doing a great job. Thank you.”

    In the first round at Madras International Circuit on August 24-25, the Bengal Tigers excelled, with all drivers scoring points. Alister Yoong won Race-2, and Ruhaan Alva secured P3 in Race-1. In the Formula 4 segment, Australia’s Hugh Barter rebounded from a last-lap retirement in Race-1 to win the next two races, including a remarkable victory from P15 on the grid.

    Great start for Ruhaan Alva of Bengaluru, who had a P3 in both F4 and IRL in the first round.

    The event kicks off at 2 pm on both Saturday and Sunday, offering spectators plenty of entertainment, including car stunts and “hot laps” by bike riders.

    JK TYRE-FMSCI INDIAN NATIONAL RACING CHAMPIONSHIP

    The Round-2 of the 29th JK Tyre-FMSCI Indian National Racing Championship, made up of Formula LGB4 class with a 24-car grid, will run concurrently, and thus, it will set another landmark by becoming the first domestic motor racing competition to have night races.

    Last weekend’s double-header witnessed some of the closest racing in recent memory, with the low-cost, entry-level Formula cars going wheel-to-wheel at tremendous pace. Dark Don team-mates, Bala Prasath (Coimbatore) and Tijil Rao (Bengaluru) survived the hectic competition to win a race apiece.

    KEY INFORMATIONS FOR SPECTATOR MOVEMENT

    To be a part of the first ever night race in Chennai, attendees are directed to specific gates and box offices based on their seating and ticket categories:

    • Box Office 1 – Gate No. 2: Serves Grandstand 1, with entry from Muthuswamy Road/Bridge.
    • Box Office 3 – Gate No. 4: Serves Grandstands 2, 3, 4 & 5, with parking at Kalavaram Ground and entry from Wallajah Road to Press Club Road.
    • Box Office 4 – Gate No. 5: For the Media Stand, meeting at Tamil Nadu State Guesthouse, with entry from Wallajah Road to Press Club Road.
    • Box Office 5 – Gate No. 6: Caters to Gold, Platinum, and Premium Lounges, with parking at Madras University and entry from Kamarajar Road.

    About Indian Racing Festival 

    The Indian Racing Festival (IRF) is a meticulously curated motorsport event designed to captivate the growing motorsport fan base in India. The Indian Racing League (IRL) and the Formula 4 Indian Championship (F4IC) are the two championships under the Indian Racing Festival banner. Notably, the Indian Racing League is FMSCI (Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India) approved, adding a level of prestige and official recognition to the competition.

    ● The Indian Racing League (IRL) is India’s only 4-wheel racing league and the world’s first gender-neutral racing championship series, promoting inclusivity and competitive spirit. IRL features six city-based teams competing in a dynamic franchise-based competition.

    ● Formula 4 is an open-wheel, single-seater racing category intended for junior drivers. It is the first step of the ladder for an aspiring racing driver from karting to single-seater racing.

    The FIA-certified Formula 4 Indian Championship has begun to attract young and aspiring drivers from around the world and the country. It creates an opportunity for young drivers in their single-seater journey with minimal investment from their end. The drivers gain Super License points and the Indian talent gets to do this at home instead of going abroad. 

    About Sports Development Authority of Tamil Naidu

    The Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) is dedicated to promoting sports and physical fitness across Tamil Nadu. Leveraging resources from government, sports associations, philanthropists, institutions, and sports enthusiasts, SDAT aims to foster a thriving sports culture and enhance physical well-being throughout the State.

    About Racing Promotions Pvt. Ltd. 

    Racing Promotions Private Ltd., co-founded by Akhilesh Reddy and professional race drivers Armaan Ebrahim and Aditya Patel in 2019, aims to bridge the gap between racing talent and opportunities. The franchise model, a first in Indian motorsports, emphasizes creating lasting engagement opportunities for teams, drivers, fans, and sponsors while promoting inclusivity and competitive spirit. 

    Racing Promotions Pvt. Ltd. (RPPL) is dedicated to forging a holistic motorsport ecosystem in India, with the mission to host FIA-caliber events and create pathways for aspiring individuals to pursue careers as drivers, engineers, and mechanics. Committed to revolutionizing motorsport, RPPL also aims to bolster motorsport education and awareness across the nation.

  • Chennai Formula street circuit, gets a facelift; all set to host the Round 2 of IRL & Indian F4

    Chennai Formula street circuit, gets a facelift; all set to host the Round 2 of IRL & Indian F4

    Chennai, 27 August 2024: The Chennai Formula Circuit is in Work in Progress state to host the second round of the Indian Racing League. INDIAinF1 consultant photo editor Srinivasa Krishnan is on a reccee and here is a selection of photographs that depict the status of the circuit as on 27 August 2024.

    Named as Chennai Formula Racing Circuit, CFRC, will host the second round of the Indian Racing League and the Indian F4 championship, the highest rated event after Formula 1 that is being held in India. The Street Circuit will be the second in the country, after Hyderabad hosted the first IRL, also on a street circuit and the 2023 Hyderabad ePrix, the Formula E race.

    The LED floodlights that are being installed are shown here! One can see Sir Thomas Munro statue at the end… PHOTOS by Srinivasa Krishnan

    The 3.5KM street circuit in the heart of Chennai, is conceived by Racing Promotions Private Limited (RPPL), the organisers of IRL and F4 in collaboration with the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT). The circuit was formally launched on August 16 and is all set to host India’s first-ever night street race. It was planned to host the IRL and F4 India round on 9 and 10 December 2023. However, the race was canceled due to the cylone Michaung.

    The stretch opposite to Shivananda circle

    The 3.500 km (2.175 mi) circuit around Island grounds will run through Flag Staff Road, Victory War Memorial, Pallavan Road (junction), Sivananda circle and Napier Bridge and ends at Island Grounds. Unlike the planned elevation changes at Buddh International circuit, the Chennai street circuit used the natural roads that have significant elevation changes. It is within the view of the Bay of Bengal, within 400 metres of Marina Beach.

    The street circuit will run in an anti-clockwise direction and has 19 corners with multiple chicanes, the start grid is just ahead of the Napier Bridge. The pitlane and paddock will be on the Island Grounds. It is designed by Driven International, the group which built the Hyderabad Street Circuit. Karun Chandhok, India’s second Formula 1 driver, is a consultant for Driven International and he played a key role with his inputs.

    The Tamil Nadu government had supported the initiative under the leadership of Youth Welfare and Sports Development Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, with a partnership that was worked out between Greater Chennai Corporation and Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority. Racing Promotions (RPPL) has invested Rs.200 crores and the TN government has supported Rs. 42 crores.

  • Double for Hugh Barter in F4; India’s Divy Nandan earns maiden podium

    Double for Hugh Barter in F4; India’s Divy Nandan earns maiden podium

    Chennai, 25 August 2024: India’s rookie driver Divy Nandan from Gurugram secured his first-ever podium finish in the Indian F4 Championship, taking an impressive third place in Race 2 at the Madras International Circuit on Sunday.

    In the premier Indian Racing League (IRL) class, Malaysian driver Alister Yoong of the Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers team demonstrated his racing prowess with a commanding lights-to-flag victory. Aussie driver Isaac Demellweek of Chennai Turbo Riders team came second ahead of Divy Nandan of Ahmedabad Apex Racers team. For Divy, the first trainee of Narain Karthikeyan Racing Academy, who took up racing only a few years back, this is a big moment in his fledgling career. Born on January 5th, 2003, the BBA Sports Management student of PES University, Bengaluru. Narain, the first Indian to race in Formula 1, took him under his wings in 2021 and fast tracked his growth and in four years, Divy had showed tremendous improvement by dint of hard work and committment.

    Meanwhile, Australia’s Hugh Barter, representing Godspeed Kochi, bounced back from a challenging Saturday by claiming a sensational double victory in the Formula 4 Indian Championship. The first round of the Indian Racing Festival, promoted by Racing Promotions Private Limited, concluded on a high note.

    Hugh Barter of Godspeed Kochi

    Starting from pole position, Yoong, the 21-year-old son of former Formula 1 driver Alex Yoong, showcased his exceptional skills, fending off an early challenge from Hyderabad Blackbirds’ Akhil Rabindra, who settled for second place.

    Leander Paes pats Yoong

    Indian tennis legend Leander Paes, was at hand to hug and congratulate Alister Yoong, immediately after his victory. The Kolkata giant is here to support the Shirachi Rarh Bengal Tigers team. “I had a beautiful car today. Absolutely no issues. So, yeah, I had a good start, and it is nice to win,” said Yoong.

    Tennis legend Leander Paes pats Alister Yoong, after his win. Photo by Srinivasa Krishnan
    Alister Yoong with the trophy. Photos by Srinivasa Krishnan

    Czech driver Gabriela Jilkova of Goa Aces JA Racing took third, delivering an impressive performance in a race that saw little change at the front during the 25-minute plus one-lap event.

    On the Formula 4 side, 19-year-old Hugh Barter from the Godspeed Kochi team dominated Race 2, winning by over 18 seconds, and followed it up with another convincing victory in Race 3. Even a Safety Car period, which bunched up the grid and erased his lead, couldn’t stop Barter’s charge. He earned 10 points for his Race 2 win, 25 points for Race 3, and additional bonus points for pole positions.

    Barter displayed relentless aggression in Race 2, climbing from P15 to P1 in just seven laps. He pulled away from the pack with his blistering pace. Australian Isaac Demellweek (Chennai Turbo Riders) finished second, with India’s Divy Nandan (Ahmedabad Apex Racers) taking third. Bengaluru teenager Abhay Mohan (Bangalore Speedsters) impressed as well, finishing eighth after starting in P16.

    In the next race, Barter got off to another strong start and built a lead of over 10 seconds before the Safety Car intervened due to an on-track incident. Once the race resumed, Barter quickly regained his lead, securing a comfortable win. Behind him, South African Aqil Alibhai (Hyderabad Blackbirds) finished second, followed by Ruhaan Alva (Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers) in third. Indian drivers Jaden Rahaman Pariat, Divy Nandan, and Abhay Mohan completed the top six, giving local fans more reasons to celebrate. For Alva, the weekend was especially fruitful with three podium finishes in five races across two categories.

    The Indian Racing Festival, spanning five rounds, will continue with the historic night street race in the heart of Chennai next weekend. The event is sponsored by Kingfisher Soda, JK Tyres, Mobil 1, and Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Limited.

    JK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championship

    In the Formula LGB4 class, Bengaluru’s Tijil Rao (Dark Don Racing) delivered a brilliant performance, combining aggression with defense to claim a well-deserved victory in Race 2. He held off veteran Raghul Rangasamy (MSPORT), while Mehul Agarwal (Dark Don Racing) from Kolkata secured third place with a last-lap push.

    The race featured some dramatic moments, beginning with pole-sitter Chetan Surineni (Ahura Racing) stalling on the grid, allowing Rao and Agarwal to take the lead. Despite a Safety Car period, the positions remained unchanged. Rao defended his lead brilliantly against Rangasamy, who had overtaken Agarwal, while Agarwal battled with Abhay Mohan before finishing in third. Behind them, Viswas Vijayaraj (Dark Don Racing) made a remarkable recovery from P15 to P10, and Neev Datta climbed from P21 to P8 in a 24-car grid.

    RE Continental Cup

    In the RE Continental Cup, Coimbatore’s Navaneeth Kumar S claimed victory over Race 1 winner Anish Shetty from Bengaluru in a close finish among the Professionals. The duo finished ahead of Chennai’s Soorya PM, who was promoted to third place after Abhishek Vasudev received a 30-second penalty for “overtaking under a yellow flag.”

    Navaneeth Kumar S (bike #6) wins Race 1 ahead of Anish Shetty bike #2)

    In the Amateur category, Bengaluru’s Yogesh P achieved a double with another dominant win, finishing Race 2 eight seconds ahead of Johnson Saldanha (Mangaluru), while Nijin A (Pathanamthitta) secured third place.

    The results (Provisional):

    Indian Racing League Race-2 (Driver B – 25mins+1 lap):1. Alister Yoong (Malaysia, Shirachi Rarh Bengal Tigers) 27mins, 15.226secs);2. Akhil Rabindra (India, Hyderabad Blackbirds) (27:19.810);3. Gabriela Jilkova (Czech Republic, Goa Aces JA Racing) (27:35.127). Fastest Lap: Sohil Shah

    Formula 4 Indian (Race-2, 25 mins+1 lap):1. Hugh Barter (Australia,Godspeed Kochi) (27:06.573);2. Isaac Demellweek (Australia, Chennai Turbo Riders) (27:25.297);3. Divy Nandan (India, Ahmedabad Apex Racers) (27:29.102). Fastest Lap: Hugh Barter

    Race-3 (25 mins+1 lap):1.Hugh Barter (Australia, Godspeed Kochi) (27:06.536);2. Aqil Alibhai (South Africa, Hyderabad Blackbirds) (27:10.134);3. Ruhaan Alva (India, Shirachi Rarh Bengal Tigers) (27:11.549). Fastest Lap: Hugh Barter

    JK Tyre-FMSCI National Racing Championship

    Formula LGB 4 (Race-2, 10 laps): 1. Tijil Rao (Bengaluru, Dark Don Racing) (21:38.184);2. Raghul Rangasamy (Mamallapuram, MSPORT) (21:38.653);3. Mehul Agarwal (Kolkata, Dark Don Racing) (21:41.780).

    RE Continental GT Cup (Race-2, 6 laps) Professionals: 1. Navaneeth Kumar S (Puducherry) (11:51.466);2. Anish Shetty (Bengaluru) (11:51.644);3.Soorya PM (Chennai) (11:56.614).

    Amateurs: 1. Yogesh P (Bengaluru) (12:47.013);2.Johnson Saldanha (Mangaluru) (12:55.118);3. Nijin A (Pathanamthitta, Kerala) (12:55.327).