Indian motorsport fans have a new reason to cheer as Kush Maini has been appointed as the test and reserve driver for the BWT Alpine F1 Team. With this achievement, the 24-year-old from Bengaluru becomes only the third Indian driver to be officially associated with a Formula 1 team, following in the footsteps of Narain Karthikeyan and Karun Chandhok.
A Rising Star in Motorsport
Maini’s journey to Formula 1 has been a result of years of dedication and hard work. Beginning his career in karting, he progressed through the ranks of junior categories, competing in championships like the BRDC British Formula 3 and FIA Formula 3. His consistent performances earned him recognition, leading to a spot in Formula 2, the direct feeder series to Formula 1.
In October 2023, Maini joined the Alpine Academy, marking a significant step in his career. Competing in the 2024 Formula 2 season, he secured five podium finishes, including a victory in Budapest. His strong performances convinced Alpine to elevate him to the test and reserve driver role while he continues racing in Formula 2 with DAMS Lucas Oil.
What Maini’s New Role Entails
As a test and reserve driver, Maini will play a crucial role in Alpine’s car development programme. He will work in the state-of-the-art simulator at Alpine’s Enstone base in the UK, assisting with improvements to the F1 car’s performance. Additionally, he will gain valuable on-track experience through TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) sessions, helping him adapt to Formula 1 machinery.
Expressing excitement about his new role, Maini stated,”I am delighted to step up to the role of test and reserve driver for BWT Alpine Formula 1 Team this season. I am looking forward to getting more track time in Formula 1 machinery and building on what I have already learned with the team in 2024.”
Alpine’s Confidence in Maini’s Potential
Alpine Academy Director Julian Rouse praised Maini’s rapid development, saying,”Kush has impressed the team across his TPC performances and Formula 2 results. We expect he will continue to do so in 2025.”
Maini joins an elite group of Alpine reserve drivers, including Paul Aron, Ryo Hirakawa, and Franco Colapinto. While his immediate focus remains on Formula 2, his new role with Alpine brings him one step closer to securing a full-time Formula 1 seat in the future.