Who is Kush Maini? Meet the first Indian to win Formula 2 race at Monaco, earning praise from Anand Mahindra
Kush Maini has made history as the first Indian driver to win a Formula 2 race at the iconic Monaco Grand Prix. The 25-year-old delivered a flawless performance in Saturday's Sprint Race, dominating from start to finish and securing his first-ever F2 podium with DAMS Lucas Oil.
Starting from pole due to the reverse grid system, Maini showed exceptional control and maturity, leading all 30 laps with a calm, composed drive around one of the toughest circuits in motorsport. The victory marked his first win of the season and his most significant milestone to date.
'P1 and first Indian to win at Monaco. It's a great honour and a dream come true, really. I want to thank DAMS and everyone who's supported me. We keep believing,' said Maini after the race, visibly emotional during the post-race celebration.
Maini had initially qualified P10 for the Feature Race on Sunday, which put him on pole for the Sprint Race under F2's reverse grid rule. He capitalized on the opportunity with a commanding lights-to-flag win, something rarely seen on a circuit known for its tight corners and limited overtaking chances.
Anand Mahindra congratulates Maini for his historic win.
Business tycoon Anand Mahindra, chairman of the Mahindra Group and a longtime supporter of Indian talent in motorsports, took to social media to praise Maini's feat.
'You are Standing Tall 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,' Mahindra posted on X, celebrating the massive breakthrough for Indian motorsport.
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 pic.twitter.com/mJJg2Dlxpo
Who is Kush Maini?
For those just discovering his name, Kush Maini is far from a newcomer to the racing world. His journey in single-seaters began in 2016 with Italian F4 and quickly progressed through various series, including British F3—where he placed third in 2018—and FIA F3.
In 2022, he finished 13th in the FIA Formula 3 Drivers' Championship with MP Motorsport before stepping up to FIA Formula 2. He earned his first F2 victory in the Budapest Sprint Race in 2024 and is currently competing in his third F2 Sprint campaign.
Maini is also the reserve driver for the BWT Alpine F1 Team and represents DAMS Lucas Oil in the current season. Beyond Formula 2, he has tested his versatility with stints in the F3 Asia series and the FIA World Endurance Championship.
He comes from a racing family too. His brother Arjun Maini also raced in Formula 2, and their uncle Chetan Maini is known for building India's first electric car. Kush is mentored by F1 legend Mika Häkkinen, and with his recent success, he's quickly becoming a name to watch on the international circuit.
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