In a thrilling turn of events, Kush Maini clinched his first-ever victory in the FIA Formula 2 Championship, becoming only the second Indian driver to achieve this milestone. The 23-year-old’s win came after Richard Verschoor was disqualified due to a technical infringement discovered post-race, propelling Maini to the top step of the podium.
Maini’s path to victory was anything but straightforward. As the race unfolded, it was Mercedes star Andrea Kimi Antonelli who initially surged into the lead on fresh soft tyres, overtaking Richard Verschoor. However, Antonelli’s advantage quickly dissipated as his tyres degraded, forcing him to pit and handing the lead back to Verschoor.
Verschoor appeared set for a comfortable win until the post-race inspection revealed that the rear plank of his Trident car did not meet the minimum thickness requirements. This breach of article 3.4.3 of the technical regulations led to his disqualification, altering the race results dramatically.
With Verschoor out of contention, Maini, driving for Invicta Racing, was declared the winner, marking a significant milestone in his racing career. The FIA issued an official statement explaining the decision: “Having considered the matter extensively, the stewards determined that the rear plank of car 22 [Verschoor] was below the minimum thickness required and is therefore in breach of article 3.4.3 of the technical regulations.”
Maini’s victory is not just a personal triumph but a significant achievement for Indian motorsport, as he joins an elite group of Indian drivers who have tasted success on the international stage. Reflecting on his unexpected win, Maini expressed his elation and gratitude for the support from his team and fans.
The race also featured a spectacular clash involving Haas-bound Ollie Bearman, Jak Crawford, and Juan Manuel Correa. The trio went wheel-to-wheel in a thrilling battle for points, with Bearman ultimately finishing in P10 despite the intense competition.
Maini’s victory and the dramatic race events at the Hungaroring have set the stage for an exciting remainder of the season in Formula 2. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Maini to see if he can build on this historic win and continue to make waves in the world of motorsport.
