Indian racers aim for Formula 1 breakthrough despite financial hurdles
Drivers Saishiva Sankaran and Viswas Vijayaraj discuss the challenges of pursuing motorsport in India.
Young Indian racers are aiming to reach Formula 1 despite facing limited opportunities and financial constraints, according to a Times of India report. During the Indian Racing Festival's return to the Buddh International Circuit, drivers Saishiva Sankaran and Viswas Vijayaraj spoke about the demands of the sport.
Sankaran, who represents the Kolkata Royal Tigers in the Indian Racing League, began racing at age eight in Pune. He has progressed from karting to single-seater racing and the F2000 Championship. Sankaran said his journey has been a 10-year process starting from the basics.
Viswas Vijayaraj, who represents the Chennai Turbo Riders, said his motivation stems from a childhood love for cars. He expressed a desire to represent India at the highest level of the sport.
The drivers highlighted several challenges, including limited testing opportunities and the difficulty of balancing racing with education. Vijayaraj noted that international drivers often have regular track time, whereas Indian racers may only get a couple of days of testing per month.
Financial backing remains a significant obstacle for those moving through junior racing categories. Vijayaraj said that while Formula 1 is a dream, drivers struggle with finances as they progress.
Sankaran, who competed in Indian F4 last year, is looking to move up the ranks and is seeking sponsors and brands to invest in his career.