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India has a new motorsport icon: Kush Maini. The 24-year-old racing prodigy etched his name into the annals of history by becoming the first Indian driver to win a Formula 2 race at the iconic Monaco Grand Prix. Fresh off his appointment as Alpine F1’s reserve driver, Maini delivered a masterclass on motorsport’s grandest stage, proving why he’s tipped as a future Formula 1 star. Competing for DAMS under the Alpine Academy banner, Maini’s Monaco triumph not only marks a personal milestone but also revitalizes his 2025 campaign after a rocky start.
How Kush Maini conquered F2’s most treacherous circuit
Maini’s victory came in Saturday’s Sprint Race, where he showcased nerves of steel on Monaco’s narrow, unforgiving streets. Starting from pole position—a result of the reverse-grid rule after qualifying 10th for Sunday’s Feature Race—he executed a flawless drive, leading all 30 laps without yielding to pressure.
The Monaco circuit, notorious for its zero-error tolerance, demands surgical precision. Maini delivered exactly that, navigating hairpin turns and blind corners with the poise of a veteran. His ability to maintain focus amid chaotic mid-pack battles and tire degradation challenges highlighted why Alpine fast-tracked him into their F1 reserve role.
Post-race, an emotional Kush Maini called the win a “dream come true” and credited his DAMS Lucas Oil team for their relentless support. “We kept believing, and it paid off,” he said as India’s national anthem echoed through the principality—a first for the country in F2 history.
From Bengaluru to Monaco: The making of a trailblazer
Maini’s journey to this pinnacle has been fueled by years of grassroots support. Indian business magnate Gautam Singhania, founder of JK Racing, and TVS Racing have been pivotal in nurturing his talent. Singhania, present in Monaco to witness the historic moment, embraced Maini post-race, symbolizing a partnership that began when the driver was a teenager.
The Bengaluru-born racer’s ascent through European junior series—Formula Renault, F3, and now F2—mirrors the rise of India’s motorsport ambitions. His Monaco win isn’t just a personal triumph but a watershed moment for a nation yearning for global racing relevance.
Overcoming Adversity: A season rebooted
Before Monaco, Kush Maini’s 2025 F2 campaign had been a rollercoaster. Mechanical failures and strategic missteps left him outside the top 10 in the standings. However, the Alpine Academy’s faith never wavered, rewarding him with a reserve driver role that amplified his confidence.
The Monaco victory injects critical momentum as the season shifts to Barcelona next weekend. Starting 10th in Sunday’s Feature Race, Maini faces an uphill battle—but his Sprint Race dominance proves he thrives under pressure.
What’s next for Maini?
With Alpine eyeing him as a potential successor to Esteban Ocon or Pierre Gasly, Maini’s F2 performances are under intense scrutiny. His Monaco masterclass—a blend of racecraft, tire management, and mental resilience—checks every box F1 teams prioritize.
Key Takeaways from Monaco:
Historic First: India joins the F2 winners’ circle.
Alpine’s Gain: Maini’s readiness for F1 becomes undeniable.
Inspiration Unleashed: A generation of Indian karting prodigies now has a blueprint.
Kush Maini’s Monaco victory transcends motorsport—it’s a cultural reset for Indian athletics. As the tricolor flew high in F2’s most glamorous setting, Maini didn’t just win a race; he ignited a nation’s racing dreams. For Alpine, the message is clear: India’s first F2 winner might soon be gunning for an even bigger stage.
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