Shahan Ali Mohsin secures a stunning victory for Speed Demons Delhi at the Indian Racing Festival 2025, held at the Madras International Circuit in Chennai.
Introduction
What a day it was at the Madras International Circuit! The Indian Racing Festival (IRF) 2025’s second round served up pure adrenaline, dramatic battles, and a story that will be remembered for years to come. Shahan Ali Mohsin, driving for Speed Demons Delhi, delivered a masterclass to secure victory in IRL Race 1 on August 23, 2025.
The atmosphere? Electric. The track? Tricky and evolving after heavy overnight rain. Fans witnessed a perfect blend of strategy, skill, and bravery on one of India’s most iconic circuits. Let’s dive deep into how Mohsin’s stellar performance shaped the narrative of IRF 2025 and what else unfolded on this unforgettable day in Chennai.
The Stage is Set: Madras International Circuit Comes Alive
The Madras International Circuit in Chennai is no stranger to drama, but IRF 2025 Round 2 took things to a whole new level. The track, known for its technical corners and fast straights, demands nothing less than perfection from drivers. With passionate fans filling the stands, the buzz was palpable as the engines roared back to life for Day 1 of racing.
How Weather Changed the Game for IRF Round 2
The night before Race Day, heavy rain lashed Chennai, leaving the track damp and unpredictable. As the sun rose, conditions improved, but the drying line evolved throughout qualifying and the race. Drivers had to adapt on the fly—one wrong move could send them into the gravel. This added an extra layer of challenge, making Mohsin’s performance even more impressive.
Qualifying Battles: Precision Over Power
Qualifying was a story of precision and nerve. Shahan Ali Mohsin showed why he’s considered one of India’s finest racing talents, putting together a flawless lap to claim pole position. His teammate, Alister Yoong, slotted into P3, while Aqil Alibhai of Chennai Turbo Riders secured P2. With Speed Demons Delhi locking out the first and third spots, the stage was set for an intense showdown.
Shahan Ali Mohsin Grabs Pole for IRL Race 1
Securing pole was only half the job. Mohsin knew the start would be critical, and he nailed it to perfection. As the lights went out, he launched cleanly, pulling away from the pack within the first few corners. From that moment, the race became a test of consistency, focus, and maintaining the gap.
The Race Start: Mohsin Flies, Yoong Attacks
While Mohsin sprinted ahead, all eyes turned to the battle behind him. Alister Yoong, starting from P3, had a lightning-fast getaway and immediately challenged Aqil Alibhai for second. His aggressive approach paid off as he squeezed past Alibhai, setting up a Speed Demons Delhi 1–2 early in the race.
The Nail-Biting Duel for P2: Alibhai vs Yoong
The race wasn’t short on drama. Alibhai regrouped and kept piling the pressure on Yoong. Lap after lap, he searched for a way through, but Yoong defended brilliantly. It all came down to the final lap. At the last corner, Alibhai made a desperate lunge—and it worked. In a photo finish, he snatched second place by the narrowest of margins, leaving Yoong to settle for third.
Mohsin’s Commanding Drive to Victory
While chaos unfolded behind, Mohsin remained calm and composed out front. His pace was relentless, his lines perfect. Every lap he stretched his lead, and by the time the checkered flag waved, he had built a comfortable gap. The victory wasn’t just about speed; it was about strategy, patience, and sheer brilliance.
What Shahan Ali Mohsin Said After the Win
In his post-race interview, Mohsin was all smiles and gratitude:
“First of all, I would like to thank God. It feels great to be back on the podium after a long time. Last year we had a great season, but I couldn’t perform well due to some reasons. But of course, it feels great to win, and a very good job by the team for preparing the car, and especially to Alistair for coming P3. I mean, it’s a fantastic thing.”
This victory marks a strong comeback for Mohsin, reinforcing his reputation as one of India’s top racing stars.
Official IRL Race 1 Provisional Results
- Winner: Shahan Ali Mohsin (26:38.876)
- Runner-up: Aqil Alibhai (26:45.238)
- 2nd Runner-up: Alister Yoong (26:45.263)
Formula 4 Indian Championship – The Next Big Battle
While IRL served up fireworks, the Formula 4 Indian Championship (F4 Indian) brought its own share of drama. The opening race saw Sachel Rotge and Ishaan Madesh line up on the front row after stellar qualifying performances.
Sachel Rotge’s Brave Overtake for Victory
Rotge played the waiting game, studying Ishaan ahead of him. With just five minutes left, he seized his moment, executing a daring overtake in a tricky section of the track. That move gave him clean air and the edge he needed to take the win for Kichcha Kings Bengaluru.
Ghazi Motlekar’s Heroics from P10 to P2
The drive of the day, though, arguably belonged to Ghazi Motlekar. Starting from 10th, he carved his way through the field with precision overtakes, finishing second—a performance that left fans in awe.
Annabel Kennedy Clinches the Final Podium Spot
Rounding off the podium was Annabel Kennedy, who displayed consistency and control to secure P3. The F4 race perfectly showcased the rising talent pool in Indian motorsport.
F4 Indian Round 2 Results:
- Winner: Sachel Rotge (26:50.043)
- Runner-up: Ghazi Motlekar (26:56.072)
- 2nd Runner-up: Annabel Kennedy (26:56.429)
Day 2 Preview: More Racing Action Awaits
As the sun sets on an unforgettable Day 1, the excitement is far from over. Day 2 will feature the second group of IRL drivers and three more F4 races. If today was any indication, fans are in for a thrilling Sunday.
Indian Racing Festival 2025 – What Makes It Special
The IRF isn’t just about racing; it’s about creating a vibrant motorsport culture in India. With global-standard racing, star drivers, and top-tier sponsors like JK Tyres, Nayara Energy, Mobil 1, and Bisleri, the event is redefining how motorsport is celebrated in the country.
Conclusion
Day 1 at the Madras International Circuit gave us everything we love about racing—speed, strategy, and spectacle. Shahan Ali Mohsin’s commanding victory for Speed Demons Delhi will be remembered as one of the highlights of IRF 2025. And with more action coming tomorrow, the festival is only getting started.
FAQs
1. Who won the IRL Race 1 at Madras International Circuit?
Shahan Ali Mohsin won the race for Speed Demons Delhi with a dominant performance.
2. How did Alister Yoong perform in the race?
Yoong finished third after a fierce battle for second with Aqil Alibhai.
3. Which driver impressed the most in Formula 4 Indian Championship?
Ghazi Motlekar stood out by climbing from P10 to P2 in an incredible drive.
4. Where can fans watch the Indian Racing Festival live?
The event is streamed on JioHotstar and broadcast on Star Sports Select 2.
5. What’s next for IRF 2025?
Day 2 will feature the second group of IRL drivers and more F4 races at the Madras International Circuit.
