Kush Maini dominated the Monaco Sprint Race starting from pole position to the chequered flag in Formula 2. Even Hollywood could not have scripted it any better with Maini his maiden podium with Dams Lucas Oil at the haloed street circuit of Monte Carlo. Anand Mahindra, chairman of Mahindra Group and a sports enthusiast, took to social media and wished Maini on this historic achievement.
Kush Maini: Stays cool under pressure
The Bengaluru-based racer qualified in tenth position for the Sprint Race, but with the reverse grid system, he started from the front of the pack. It was a gruelling 30-lap sprint where the Alpine F1 team test and reserve drive showed his class by not letting the pressure get to him. Maini was constantly shadowed by fellow Alpine Academy driver Gabriele Minì throughout the Sprint Race, but he managed to keep the Italian at bay and won the Sprint Race.
There was an opening lap incident between Campos Racing’s Arvid Lindblad and Dams’ Jak Crawford, and the former was handed a 10-second time penalty by the race stewards.
After the emotional podium win, Maini said, “P1 and first Indian to win at Monaco. It’s a great honour and dream come true really. I want to thank DAMS and everyone who’s supported me . We keep believing”.
Anand Mahindra’s emotional tribute
By watching the Indian flag flying high on the Formula 2 podium, Anand Mahindra took to social media and gave Kush Maini a standing ovation. He posted on X, former Twitter, “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.”
Business tycoon Gautam Singhania was at the race celebrating the historic win. He and TVS Motor have supported Maini throughout his career.
