For years, Kush Maini was just a boy with a big dream and a borrowed racing suit—handed down from his older brother, Arjun. Growing up in a country where motorsport often takes a backseat to cricket, the odds were stacked against him. Yet, against all expectations, Maini has done what no Indian has managed in over a decade—secured a spot in Formula One.
Alpine’s announcement of Maini as their official reserve driver for the 2025 season marks the return of an Indian presence in the F1 paddock after 13 long years. He joins the elite list of Narain Karthikeyan and Karun Chandhok as the only Indians to be associated with an F1 team. But here’s the real twist—this is more than just a symbolic role. Maini is not here to make up the numbers; he’s here to fight for a full-time seat in 2026.
The young driver has already proven his mettle in Formula 2. In 2024, he delivered a sensational season, securing five podium finishes, clinching a historic pole position in Jeddah, and playing a pivotal role in Invicta Racing’s championship triumph. These performances caught Alpine’s attention, leading to multiple F1 tests with the team—each one reinforcing his potential.
Now, as Alpine restructures and looks ahead to the future, Maini has a golden opportunity. Strong performances in Formula 2 this season could catapult him into contention for a full-time race seat in 2026. His competitors know it. Alpine knows it. And if the stars align, Kush Maini might just become India’s next Formula One race driver.
From hand-me-down suits to a chance at the pinnacle of motorsport, Maini’s journey is a testament to perseverance, raw talent, and the power of dreaming big. Now, the only question is—can he take the final step and put India back on the F1 grid as a full-time racer? If his trajectory is anything to go by, the answer might just be yes. Buckle up, because this is only the beginning.
