Source – Aisione Magazine
Kush Maini, who finished 13th in his individual season, won a historic Constructors championship with Invicta Racing in Formula Two.
In a groundbreaking moment for Indian motorsport, Kush Maini etched his name into history as the first and only Indian driver to win the FIA Formula 2 Constructors’ Championship. Driving for Invicta Racing, Maini’s season was a mix of triumphs and challenges, but his contributions to the team’s victory were nothing short of pivotal. With five podium finishes, including a sensational race win in Hungary, Maini proved his mettle in a season that saw the team emerge victorious by a commanding 34.5-point margin over Campos Racing—a team Maini had once called home.
The journey to this remarkable achievement began with a promising start in Jeddah, where Maini secured a pole position that set the tone for Invicta Racing’s dominant campaign. His ability to adapt and deliver under pressure became a cornerstone of the team’s success. Despite finishing 13th in the individual standings, Maini’s consistent performance and unwavering commitment played a crucial role in Gabriel Bortoleto’s championship-winning run and Invicta’s eventual triumph.
The final race weekend at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi encapsulated the highs and lows of Maini’s season. Qualifying P6, he showcased his trademark grit with explosive starts in both the sprint and feature races. In the sprint, Maini stormed through the field, gaining six positions on the first lap. The feature race saw a similar surge, with three places gained in the opening moments. However, misfortune struck as floor damage hampered his pace in the sprint, and a stalled pitstop disrupted his plans in the feature race, denying him a chance to cap off the season with a flourish.
Reflecting on the season, Maini remained grounded yet optimistic. “Not the year I wanted it to be given how we started, but still a lot of positives to take away, including a Constructors Championship,” he said, acknowledging the team effort behind Invicta’s success. “Thank you to everyone at Invicta for a good run and wish them all the luck for the future. Looking forward to what’s next for me and raring to go for next year.”
Maini’s resilience and determination have not only brought glory to Invicta Racing but also ignited hope for greater Indian representation on the global motorsport stage. His victory is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence and his ability to overcome adversity. As he steps into the next chapter of his racing journey, the weight of a nation’s aspirations rests on his shoulders, and the future looks promising for this young trailblazer.
For Indian motorsport fans, Maini’s achievement is more than a milestone; it is a moment of inspiration. It symbolizes the possibilities that lie ahead for a country striving to make its mark in the world of racing. Maini’s historic triumph serves as a reminder that with talent, hard work, and determination, even the loftiest dreams can become reality.
