Kush Maini wins F2 sprint race in Monaco, becomes first Indian to top podium in iconic venue

Racing for Dams Lucas Oil, Kush Maini led from lights out to chequered flag to secure the win.

Under the shimmering skies of the Côte d’Azur, Kush Maini etched his name into racing history, taking a spectacular win in the Formula 2 Sprint Race on the hallowed streets of Monaco. With precision, nerve, and unshakable focus, he claimed his first F2 victory of the season and his first podium with Dams Lucas Oil in the most iconic setting in motorsport, making him the first Indian to win at the most prestigious track on the calendar.

Having started from pole, the BWT Alpine F1 team reserve driver showed masterful control and strategic precision throughout the race, capitalizing on a strong start and managing pressure with veteran-like maturity. The victory makes him the only Indian driver ever to stand on the top step in Monaco.

Maini qualified P10 for the feature race on Sunday, which made him pole sitter for Saturday’s Sprint Race with the reverse grid system. Having had a solid start at lights out, The Dams driver enjoyed all 30 laps of the race as the race leader.

“P1 and first Indian to win at Monaco. It’s a great honour and dream come true really. I want to thank DAMS and everyone who’s supported me. We keep believing” – said an emotional Kush after the podium celebration in Monaco.

For what had been a tough start to the 2025 season for the young Indian driver, the Monaco win came at a great time to boost his confidence and his performance at a pivotal time of the season.

In what was truly a special moment for Kush and the entire nation, he sang the national anthem with pride at the podium celebrations. Indian business tycoon Gautam Singhania was also seen in the pit lane embracing Kush after this monumental win. Singhania’s JK Racing along with TVS racing have been supporting Kush in his racing career from the very beginning,

With this win, Kush will look to build on the momentum at the Feature race on Sunday and carry it forward with him to Barcelona next weekend.

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