Meet Kush Maini, India’s Third Formula One Driver
Kush Maini is making headlines in the motorsport world as he prepares to become just the third Indian driver to join Formula One. The 24-year-old Formula 2 racer has earned a big promotion with the Alpine team for 2025, stepping up as their Test and Reserve Driver. Alongside this new role, he’ll keep competing in Formula 2 with the DAMS team.
Maini’s journey with Alpine began in October 2024 when he joined their Academy. Racing in F2 that year, he impressed everyone with five podium finishes and a standout victory in Budapest that boosted his career. Now entering his third season in F2, he’s taking on extra duties with Alpine’s F1 squad.
In his new position, Maini will help develop the team’s car by testing it on the track and working in their high-tech simulator at the Enstone headquarters in England. He’ll also take part in the TPC program, which involves testing older F1 cars. Despite his F1 commitments, he’s sticking with DAMS Lucas Oil in F2, juggling both roles while aiming for success.
Maini’s teammate from last year, Gabriel Bartoleto, landed a full-time F1 seat with Sauber, but Maini isn’t far behind. He’ll be present at most F1 races in 2025 as part of his reserve driver duties, all while chasing wins in F2. Fans and experts alike are eager to see how he’ll perform.
Who is Kush Maini
Hailing from Bengaluru, India, Maini grew up in a family passionate about racing. Guided by two-time F1 champion Mika Hakkinen, he’s been hooked on the sport since childhood. His career kicked off in junior racing leagues, where he shone in series like British F3, Formula 4, Formula Renault Eurocup, and Formula 3. He even raced in the FIA World Endurance Championship and briefly joined Mahindra Racing in Formula E.
His big break came when Alpine’s development program opened the door to Formula 2. Now, with years of experience and a famous mentor behind him, Maini is carving his own path in motorsport. His older brother, Arjun Maini, is also a familiar name in racing circles, having competed in various championships. As 2025 approaches, Kush Maini’s story is one to watch as he races toward F1 glory.