Emerging talent set to ignite Indian F4 Championship in 2024
Chennai, 23 August 2024: The 2024 Indian Formula 4 (F4) Championship promises to be a showcase of rising stars from across the globe, with drivers as young as 15-years-old ready to take on the track. Each team brings a mix of fresh talent and experienced contenders, adding intrigue to the championship.
Goa Aces JA Racing
Leading the charge for Goa Aces is 16-year-old Australian Giancarlo Artho, the first driver announced for the team. Artho made headlines as one of the 24 drivers chosen for the 2023 Ferrari Driver Academy (FDA) Asia-Pacific selections, although he missed qualifying for the final round. Despite the setback, Artho rebounded by winning the F4 Global Shootout Program (FGSP), securing a coveted free seat for his single-seater debut.
Joining Artho is 17-year-old Aiva Anagnostiadis, who made history as the team’s first female driver. Anagnostiadis, a former Australian female karting champion, is part of Alpine’s Rac(H)er program and tested for Argenti Motorsport in British F4 this year. With her eyes set on a future in the F1 Academy, she’s a formidable addition to the team.
Speed Demons Delhi
Speed Demons Delhi’s lineup features Zakariya Mohammed, a rising star despite having no international karting experience. Mohammed finished third in the FGSP, earning a 25% scholarship and a spot on the team. He’s eager to capitalize on his opportunity and make strides in the coming weeks.
Another exciting addition to the team is 15-year-old Danish driver Alba Hurup Larsen. Larsen, a winner of the FIA Girls on Track program supported by the FDA, is already making waves. Though not officially part of the FDA, her Indian F4 experience may be a stepping stone to the F1 Academy next year.
Chennai Turbo Riders
Chennai Turbo Riders are betting on the talent of 17-year-old Jayden Hamilton, who has been competing in the Australian Formula Open series. Despite narrowly missing the championship title, Hamilton’s impressive performance at the FGSP earned him a spot on the team.
Also racing for Chennai is Isaac Demellweek, a New South Wales karting champion. Demellweek has participated in several international karting finals this year, including the Champions of the Future Academy, where he’s yet to make his mark on the standings.
Hyderabad Blackbirds
Hyderabad Blackbirds are putting their faith in 16-year-old Shriya Lohia, the first Indian driver announced for the 2024 season. Lohia made a name for herself last year by becoming the only female point-scorer in the championship.
Joining her is 17-year-old South African Aqil Alibhai, a hot favorite for the title. Alibhai has already built a strong reputation in the UK with podium finishes in Ginetta Junior and British F4. His experience and skill make him a contender to watch.
Rarh Bengal Tigers
Leading Rarh Bengal Tigers is Ruhaan Alva, a 17-year-old talent from India who has been turning heads for years. Alva competed in GB4 last season, finishing 10th overall despite missing the final rounds. He also made history as the youngest winner in the Indian Racing League.
His teammate, Tarun Muthiaiah, brings a different profile, having only raced in India. Competing in the MRF Formula 2000 series, Muthiaiah finished third this year but lacks the international experience of his peers.
Bangalore Speedsters
Bangalore Speedsters boast 17-year-old Jaden Pariat, whose motorsport record is as impressive as it is diverse. Pariat secured a podium in British F4 in 2023 and went on to dominate the MRF Formula 2000 series this year, clinching the title with eight wins in 12 races.
His teammate, Abhay Mohan, follows a similar trajectory. Mohan transitioned from a successful karting career to single-seaters, winning the MRF Formula 1600 championship last Sunday, August 18.
Godspeed Kochi
Godspeed Kochi is set to surprise with 18-year-old Hugh Barter, an Australian-Japanese driver making an unexpected return to single-seaters. Barter was highly regarded as one of the brightest young talents, finishing runner-up in French and Spanish F4 in 2022. However, after missing the FIA F3 season finale due to financial issues, Barter’s move to Indian F4 could be his path back to the top.
Ahmedabad Apex Racers
Ahmedabad Apex Racers are banking on 17-year-old Indian driver Veer Sheth. After success in karting across India and the UAE, Sheth made the jump to single-seaters last year, finishing third in the MRF Formula 1600 series. He will be joined by Divy Nandan, who was the first trainee at Narain Karthikeyan Academy. The Delhi driver graduated from karting and has taken part in the Indian Formula races in 2023.
As these young drivers gear up for the 2024 season, the Indian F4 Championship is shaping up to be an exciting battleground for the next generation of motorsport stars.
About the Formula 4 Indian Championship
Entering its second year, the Formula 4 Indian Championship is India’s only FIA-certified single-seater series. After a successful debut season, Indian F4 continues to provide young racing talent with the opportunity to earn super license points, paving the way to Formula 1. The 2024 season features 16 drivers from 8 teams, competing across 5 rounds, including street circuits and permanent tracks. MP Motorsports manages the cars, which are equipped with Mygale F4 Gen 2 chassis and Alpine 1.3L Turbo engines, reaching top speeds of 210 km/h.
