Indian Racing Festival 2025 saw Sai Sanjay, Ishaan Madesh, and Vasilis Apostolidis shine at Kari Motor Speedway in thrilling battles and stunning wins.
Introduction
Motorsport fans in India were treated to a spectacular weekend as the Indian Racing Festival (IRF) 2025 unfolded at the Kari Motor Speedway in Coimbatore. The track, known for its tight corners and electrifying atmosphere, set the perfect stage for some high-octane action. From Sai Sanjay’s commanding win for Speed Demons Delhi to the fearless fight put up by Formula 4 racers like Ishaan Madesh and Vasilis Apostolidis, day two delivered everything a racing enthusiast could dream of—speed, drama, strategy, and redemption stories.
But this wasn’t just about podiums; it was about drivers proving their grit under challenging conditions, teams showcasing flawless preparation, and fans experiencing edge-of-the-seat entertainment. So, let’s break down the unforgettable second day of Round 1 at the Indian Racing Festival.
The Roar of Day Two at Kari Motor Speedway
The atmosphere in Coimbatore was electric. The grandstands were buzzing with energy, the sound of engines reverberated across the circuit, and the anticipation was palpable. Day one had already set high expectations with Raoul Hyman’s dominance, but day two turned out to be even more intense. Every race carried its own narrative of triumph, heartbreak, and resilience.
Sai Sanjay’s Statement Win for Speed Demons Delhi
Local hero Sai Sanjay gave the fans exactly what they came for. Representing Speed Demons Delhi, he capitalized on a flawless strategy and lightning pace to secure victory in the IRL Driver B Race. Starting from P3 after a tricky qualifying session, Sanjay wasted no time in carving his way through the field. Once he grabbed the lead, there was no looking back.
“It was all about belief,” Sanjay said after the race. “We knew we had the pace. The team gave me a fantastic car, and today was about putting everything together.”
His triumph wasn’t just a win—it was a statement that Speed Demons Delhi is here to compete for the championship.
Fabienne Wohlwend’s Gritty Pursuit of Glory
Trailing Sanjay for most of the race was Fabienne Wohlwend, driving for Goa Aces. Known for her fearless racing style, Fabienne put up a remarkable chase, never letting Sanjay feel too comfortable at the front. Though she ultimately crossed the line second, her performance showcased both consistency and determination.
Her podium finish reinforced Goa Aces’ position as the early frontrunners of the championship.
Neel Jani’s Heroic Comeback to the Podium
Sometimes racing is about redemption, and Neel Jani’s race was exactly that. After a power failure on the opening lap nearly derailed his campaign, the Swiss star showed remarkable grit. In the final corners, he fought back with a desperate but brilliant move that secured him third place on the podium.
For Jani, it wasn’t just about salvaging points—it was a reminder that champions never back down, even when luck isn’t on their side.
Formula 4: Vasilis Apostolidis Masters the Wet Track
The Formula 4 races brought an added layer of unpredictability, thanks to the rain. Vasilis Apostolidis thrived in these tough conditions during Race 1. Starting from pole, he showcased masterclass car control, holding his nerve while others faltered on the slippery tarmac.
“The rain was relentless, but I kept my focus. It was one of the toughest but most satisfying wins,” Apostolidis shared. His victory set the tone for a strong championship campaign.
Ishaan Madesh Shines with a Mega Launch
If Apostolidis owned Race 1, Ishaan Madesh stole the show in Race 2. Starting from P4, he launched off the line like a rocket, storming into the lead by turn one. From there, he defended his position with determination, holding off a relentless charge from French driver Sachel Rotge.
Crossing the line just one second clear, Madesh delivered a victory that electrified fans and boosted Kolkata Royal Tigers’ confidence for the season.
Battles that Defined the Weekend
The IRF isn’t just about who wins—it’s about the wheel-to-wheel battles that keep fans glued to their seats. From Akash Gowda and Tijil Rao’s last-lap duel to Jani’s bold overtake for the final podium spot, the weekend was sprinkled with moments that will be replayed in highlight reels for weeks.
Every corner told a story of bravery, precision, and the pursuit of glory.
Drama in the JK Tyre FMSCI National Racing Championship
The LGBF4 category brought its share of drama. Dhruvh Goswami’s opening-day dominance was nullified by a technical infringement, gifting Diljit wins in Race 1 and Race 2. But redemption came in Race 3, where Goswami returned with fire in his eyes, leading from start to finish.
Behind him, Saran Vikram Tmars and Raghul Rangasamy engaged in a thrilling scrap, proving that in motorsport, nothing comes easy.
Dhruvh Goswami’s Redemption Drive
Race 3 was all about redemption for Goswami. After the heartbreak of losing two wins off the track, he silenced critics with a commanding drive. Controlling the pace from the front, he reminded everyone why he’s considered one of the most exciting talents in Indian motorsport.
His comeback was a reminder of an old racing saying: “You can knock a driver down, but you can never keep them down.”
Goa Aces—The Team to Beat in IRL
With consistent performances from Raoul Hyman on Day 1 and Fabienne Wohlwend on Day 2, the Goa Aces have emerged as the benchmark for others. Their ability to adapt to different race conditions and extract results has set them apart early in the season.
The question now is: can anyone catch them as the championship progresses?
What Lies Ahead: Chennai Awaits
With Coimbatore done, the IRF caravan now heads to Madras International Circuit in Chennai. Longer, faster, and more challenging than Kari, the Chennai track will demand more from drivers and teams. The lap record of 1:30.681looms large—will someone break it next weekend?
One thing is certain: fans can expect the intensity to rise.
The Growing Impact of Indian Motorsport
The IRF is more than just a racing festival—it’s a movement shaping India’s motorsport future. By bringing international drivers to compete alongside homegrown talents, it blends global exposure with local passion.
For young racers dreaming of Formula 1, this is the perfect platform to gain experience and recognition.
Behind the Festival: RPPL’s Vision for India
At the heart of IRF is Racing Promotions Private Limited (RPPL), driven by the vision of founders Akhilesh Reddy, Armaan Ebrahim, and Aditya Patel. Their mission? To create a sustainable motorsport ecosystem in India, recognized by the FIA, and accessible to all.
Their commitment to inclusivity ensures that racing isn’t just a sport for the elite—it’s for everyone.
JK Tyre’s Legacy in Indian Motorsport
A festival like this wouldn’t be possible without the backing of motorsport pioneers like JK Tyre. For nearly three decades, they’ve invested in making racing popular and inclusive in India. From producing stars like Narain Karthikeyan and Karun Chandhok to supporting women in motorsport, their contributions are invaluable.
JK Tyre’s involvement in IRF is not just sponsorship—it’s a continuation of their vision to keep motorsport thriving in India.
Closing Thoughts: A Festival of Speed and Spirit
The Indian Racing Festival 2025 has already proven why it is one of the most exciting motorsport events in Asia. Day two at Kari Motor Speedway was a reminder that racing is as much about heart as it is about horsepower.
From Sai Sanjay’s home win to Ishaan Madesh’s electrifying launch, and Neel Jani’s never-say-die spirit, the festival gave fans moments to cherish. With Chennai on the horizon, the story of IRF 2025 is just getting started.
FAQs
1. Who won the IRL Driver B Race at the Indian Racing Festival 2025?
Sai Sanjay from Speed Demons Delhi won the IRL Driver B Race with an impressive performance at Kari Motor Speedway.
2. Which drivers stood out in the Formula 4 races?
Vasilis Apostolidis won Race 1 in wet conditions, while Ishaan Madesh triumphed in Race 2 with a strong start.
3. Why was Dhruvh Goswami’s win revoked in the LGBF4 category?
His initial victories were taken away due to a technical infringement found during scrutineering.
4. What makes the Chennai track different from Coimbatore’s Kari Motor Speedway?
The Chennai circuit is longer and faster, demanding more endurance and precision from drivers compared to the shorter Kari track.
5. Where can fans watch the Indian Racing Festival live?
The IRF is broadcast live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Select 2, with tickets available on the Zomato District app.
