Indian Motorsports
EXCLUSIVE: Arjun Maini on past experiences, current challenges, and future aspirations.
Desi Racing Co caught up with Arjun Maini during the GT World Challenge Europe round at Monza for an exclusive chat.
At the 2025 GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup round in Monza, Desi Racing
Co. sat down with Arjun Maini — Indian driver for HRT Ford Performance. Competing in
the Pro category, Maini shares the #64 Ford Mustang GT3 with teammates Jann
Mardenborough and Thomas Drouet. He reflected on his journey from his early days in
India to competing on Europe’s premier endurance racing stage, discussing his past
experiences, current challenges, and future aspirations.
“We didn’t realize we were making memories; we just knew we were having fun.” — A.A. Milne (Winnie the Pooh)”
Q1. Starting Days
When you look back to your earliest days in India, what’s one moment that still fuels you
before every race?
“Honestly, it’s that feeling of just going to the karting track with my dad and Kush. No
pressure, just the excitement of knowing I’d get to drive a go-kart that day.
That memory — that pure love for racing — has stayed with me.” – Arjun Maini
There’s something pure about the way Arjun remembers his early days, the sound of
engines, the joy of driving, and the absence of expectations. It’s easy to forget that
behind a competitive athlete is often just a kid who fell in love with the sport. That early
feeling, untainted by pressure, is what still fuels him today.
“Be like water, my friend.” – Bruce Lee
Q2. Recent Past
You’ve shifted across F2, DTM, and now endurance racing — was this always the plan?
“I mean, when growing up, I always wanted to be in Formula One. That was always my
dream in my earliest single-seater days. And honestly — wrongly, I think — I didn’t look
at this side of racing as a part of the career. But you know, I got proven wrong. It’s a great world out here.” -Arjun Maini
His views reflect a quiet belief that endurance and other formats are where the sport
still lives in its rawest form. The message of adaptability runs deep in his story — it’s not
about one path, but about staying open to them all. Simply put, being paid to drive race
cars — that itself is a dream.
“There’s more to life than driving in circles.” – Sebastian Vettel
Q3. Present
What’s something people don’t see about what it takes to keep performing at this level
— mentally or emotionally? Especially beyond track time and physical training?
“As much as you love racing, there needs to be a very balanced life in order for you to
also perform on track. For sure you have to work hard and it has to be a priority, no
doubt, but also don’t close yourself off from other stuff. Enjoy off-time a little bit and
when you’re on track, go out there and kill.” – Arjun Maini
Maini’s perspective feels both raw and reflective. Behind the helmet is someone who’s
learned the hard way that obsession without balance burns out even the most
passionate. Talking from personal experience and acknowledging that this lesson rarely
sinks in until it’s lived — Arjun, standing on Italian soil, admits that sometimes La Dolce
Vita needs to be embraced off-track in order to hunt down your goals on it.
“Learning never exhausts the mind.” – Leonardo da Vinci
Q4. What’s next?
I believe everything in life — especially motorsport — keeps teaching us something new.
What has been your current battle?
“I would say my race starts, especially in the sprint races, can be better and that’s
something I’m working on. Everything else seems to be in a good window right now, but
as the season progresses, there will be stuff I will learn, not just with my driving, but how
to make the car work underneath me, how to use the tools in the car better, and there’s
always something you can learn every session.” – Arjun Maini
Growth is the only constant. If you feel there’s nothing left to learn, it’s time to change
tracks — literally. Arjun’s mindset reflects quiet confidence. He’s not chasing
perfection, he’s chasing The Right Track — session by session.
“You can’t aim for success if you don’t know what it looks like to you.” – Lewis Hamilton
Q5. Eventual Goal
Moving from here, what does success really look like for you — a title, a legacy, or
something more personal?
“I’m quite happy with my start at Ford, to be honest. So, yeah, of course, I want to stay in
this world. A dream would be to race in the Le Mans in top class and win, it would be
absolutely amazing.” – Arjun Maini
Always striving for the next big thing while keeping his foundational roots alive — that’s
what makes Arjun’s character complete. He’s not just racing for a result; he’s racing for
a future that carries both passion and purpose.
A strong spirit, paired with the smile of a young kid about to go karting with his family —
that’s what best describes Arjun Maini. He’s carried that spirit with him all the way to
today. And toward the end of our chat, he acknowledged something simple, yet
powerful — the presence of a fellow Indian in the paddock.
Motorsport, and Arjun especially, need more of our countrymen trackside — not just to
be seen, but to be felt.
Because every driver needs a home crowd — and Arjun is still waiting for his.
Desi Racing Co. is dedicated to bringing the latest updates and insights from the world of motorsport. Whether it’s Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, or other racing series, we’ve got you covered! Stay connected with us for in-depth motorsport coverage. Follow us on Twitter/X/, Instagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest motorsport news and updates.
Indian Motorsports
Mumbai Street Circuit Announced; Set to A Host Night Race in 2025
Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis has officially announced the Mumbai Street Circuit, set to host a night race. With this, Mumbai becomes the fourth city to feature a street race and only the second to stage a night street race.
“This is a step in the direction to make Maharashtra the motorsports capital of Asia. We will be hosting the F4 race as a street circuit in Navi Mumbai as our 1st initiative in this direction.” – Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
The Mumbai Street Circuit will host Round 5 of the Indian Racing League and Indian Formula 4 on November 29–30, 2025. With this, Mumbai joins Hyderabad, Chennai, and Goa as a street circuit host city, becoming only the second venue to stage a night street race after the Chennai Formula Racing Circuit, which held its race in August 2024.
Neither Racing Promotions Private Limited nor the Government of Maharashtra have confirmed details of the track or location yet. It is understood that more details, including the track layout, will be revealed closer to the round in November.
Desi Racing Co. is dedicated to bringing the latest updates and insights from the world of motorsport. Whether it’s Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, or other racing series, we’ve got you covered! Stay connected with us for in-depth motorsport coverage. Follow us on Twitter/X, Instagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest motorsport news and updates.
Indian Motorsports
Goa Street Circuit Officially Announced, Set to Host First Race in 2025
The Goa Street Circuit has been officially announced and will host its first race in 2025 as part of the Indian Racing Festival. Goa becomes the third Indian city with a street circuit following Hyderabad and Chennai.
The Goa Street Circuit has been approved by the Goa cabinet and is set to host Round 4 of the Indian Racing Festival in late October this year. Earlier in the year, Goa Tourism gave Principal approval to the Goa Street Circuit.
Honourable Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, today announced the “Goa Street
Race 2025” — a 3.2 km oceanfront circuit at Headland Sada, Bogda, as the official venue
for Round 4 of the 2025 Indian Racing Festival (IRF). Announced at a prestigious ceremony
at Auditorium 1, Maquinez Palace, ESG, Panjim, Goa, this landmark initiative reflects Dr.
Sawant’s visionary leadership in positioning Goa as a premier global destination for high-
Octane International Sporting Events. Scheduled from 1 to 2 November 2025, the race
promises to deliver a world-class motorsport spectacle against the state’s iconic coastline
while driving economic growth, tourism, and global recognition for the state of Goa.
The landmark announcement was graced by the presence of Asvin Chandru, IAS, CM
Secretary and CEO of the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG); Shri Sankalp Amonkar, MLA –
Mormugao; Shri. Sarpreet Singh Gill, IAS, Secretary – Information & Publicity, Government
of Goa; and Mr. Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman & Managing Director of Racing Promotions Pvt.
Ltd. (RPPL).
The Goa Street Race 2025 promises to be a star-studded affair with an impressive line-up of
Celebrity team owners bringing their charisma and passion for motorsport to the track.
Leading the charge is John Abraham with the home team, Goa Aces JA Racing, joined by
Arjun Kapoor is steering the Speed Demons Delhi, and cricketing legend Sourav Gangulyis
powering the Kolkata Royal Tigers. Adding to the excitement, Sudeep Kichcha leads
Kichcha’s Kings Bengaluru, Naga Chaitanya backs the Hyderabad Blackbirds, and Dr. Swetha
Sundeep Anand drives the spirit of Chennai Turbo Riders. Their presence is set to amplify
the thrill and glamour of this high-octane event.
“Goa’s rich heritage, dynamic culture, and stunning coastline provide an iconic stage for a motorsport property of global significance,” said Mr. Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman &
Managing Director, RPPL.
Desi Racing Co. is dedicated to bringing the latest updates and insights from the world of motorsport. Whether it’s Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, or other racing series, we’ve got you covered! Stay connected with us for in-depth motorsport coverage. Follow us on Twitter/X, Instagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest motorsport news and updates.
Indian Motorsports
Akshay Bohra Makes History with Dominant Victory at Imola in FRECA 2025
Akshay Bohra made history as the first Indian driver to take a race victory in the Formula Regional European Championship.
Akshay Bohra delivered a commanding lights-to-flag performance at the iconic Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, claiming a well-earned victory in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine (FRECA). The win marks a major milestone in the young Indian-American driver’s career and further cements his reputation as one of the brightest emerging talents in junior single-seaters.
The 18-year-old, who became the first Indian to win a European single-seater title with his Euro 4 Championship triumph last year, made the step up to Formula Regional cars in 2024. Earlier this year, he also tasted victory in the Formula Regional Middle East Championship—signalling his smooth transition into more powerful machinery.
Arriving at Imola off the back of a podium finish at Paul Ricard, Bohra came into the weekend with strong momentum. He was consistently quick during pre-event testing on Thursday and Friday, frequently appearing at the sharp end of the timing sheets.
In Qualifying 1 on Saturday, Bohra narrowly missed out on topping his group, qualifying second by just 0.186 seconds behind his more experienced teammate. Starting P3 on the grid, he briefly slipped to fourth at the end of Lap 1 but quickly regained the position with what was arguably one of the best overtakes of the season. He went on to finish third, scoring his third podium of the season—the most ever by an Indian driver in the championship’s history.
Sunday, however, was a landmark day. Bohra claimed his first-ever pole position in FRECA—also a first for any Indian driver in the series. He then converted that pole into a dominant race victory, showcasing maturity, composure, and masterful control around one of the most technically demanding tracks on the calendar.
“Winning at Imola feels incredible. It’s a track with so much history, and to stand on the top step here is really special,” said Bohra. “The team gave me a fantastic car, and everything came together today. I’m proud of the progress we’re making this season.”
– Akshay Bohra
With this result, Bohra has climbed to 5th in the overall championship standings as the season crosses its halfway point. The victory is a testament to his relentless work ethic and rapid development in one of the most competitive junior categories in the world.
Akshay Bohra’s breakthrough at Imola not only highlights his undeniable talent but also stands as a proud moment for Indian motorsport, as he continues to inspire the next generation and represent India on the global racing stage.
About Akshay Bohra
Akshay Bohra was born in New York City and lived most of his childhood in Bangalore, India, where he began his racing career at age six in go karts. The 18-year-old Indian-American racing driver currently competes in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine and is managed by driver management company ADD, which also manages reigning F1 vice world champion Lando Norris of McLaren Racing. He is the only Indian driver to have won a European single-seater championship, with a title-winning campaign in the 2024 Euro 4 Championship. With a background in international karting and consistent success in the junior formula scene, Bohra is regarded as one of the most promising talents in global motorsport and the best Indian prospect in recent history.
Desi Racing Co. is dedicated to bringing the latest updates and insights from the world of motorsport. Whether it’s Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, or other racing series, we’ve got you covered! Stay connected with us for in-depth motorsport coverage. Follow us on Twitter/X, Instagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest motorsport news and updates.
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