Kolkata Royal Tigers make IRL debut; A brief look at the teams

Chennai, 23 August 2024: As the second season of the Indian Formula 4 Championship (Indian F4) kicks off at the Madras International Circuit, racing fans across India are eager to witness the spectacle once again. The championship, organized by Racing Promotions Private Limited, features a mix of seasoned racers and rising stars from around the globe, with teams competing for the coveted championship title. Here’s a look at the drivers set to compete in the Indian Racing League. The six teams are Goa Aces, Hyderabad Blackbirds, Speed Demons Delhi, Kolkata Royal Tigers, Chennai Turbo Riders, and Bangalore Speedsters. There are some last-minute changes of drivers which will be updated soon.

Goa Aces:

Goa Aces JA Racing has an impressive lineup of talented drivers who have made their mark in various motorsports championships across the globe.

Sohil Shah, a young Indian driver born on February 24, 2001, is a rising star in Indian motorsport. He recently became the 2023 Indian Racing League Champion, a prestigious title that marks his growing dominance in racing. In 2022, Sohil secured 3rd place overall in the F2000 category and competed in the Formula 4 UAE, showcasing his versatility and commitment to racing at high levels.

Shahan Ali Mohsin, another Indian talent, was born on July 13, 2004. Despite his young age, Shahan has already achieved remarkable success. In 2023, he clinched three wins and seven podium finishes in the F4 India series. The previous year, he impressed in the Indian Racing League, winning a Sprint Race and finishing P2 in the Feature Race. Shahan was also the 2021 champion of the Indian National Car Racing Championship in the MRF Formula 1600 class, further cementing his position as one of India’s brightest motorsport prospects.

Raoul Hyman, a British driver born on May 12, 1996, brings a wealth of experience to Goa Aces JA Racing. In 2023, Raoul not only became the Indian Racing League Champion but also competed in the Super Formula Championship. His standout achievement came in 2022 when he was crowned the FIA Formula Regional Americas Champion, proving his mettle in international racing.

Gabriela Jílková, hailing from the Czech Republic, was born on April 2, 1995. Gabriela’s racing career has been impressive, and in 2023 and 2024, she served as a Porsche Formula E Sim and Development Driver. Her diverse racing accomplishments include securing 3rd place in the 2023 FFSA GT4 and earning a race victory in the Prototype Cup Germany. Gabriela’s adaptability across different racing formats highlights her talent and dedication to motorsports.

Chennai Turbo Riders

Chennai Turbo Riders boasts a lineup of skilled drivers who have made significant strides in motorsport, representing a blend of seasoned champions and rising stars.

Sandeep Kumar, born on November 11, 1992, is a proven force in Indian motorsport. In 2023, he emerged as the MRF Challenge Formula 2000 National Champion, further solidifying his reputation as a top driver. Sandeep has consistently performed at a high level, finishing as the Vice National Champion in the 2022 MRF Indian Touring Car Championship. Additionally, he holds the title of National Champion in the MRF Volkswagen Polo Cup, highlighting his versatility across different racing formats.

Mohamed Ryan, born on March 29, 2004, is one of the promising young talents in Indian motorsport. His impressive runner-up finish in the 2022 MRF Formula 2000 series showcases his potential in competitive racing. Mohamed’s journey began with success in karting, where he won the 2019 Rotax Junior Max Karting Championship, and in 2020, he competed in the MRF 1300 Indian National Racing Championship. With his rapid progression, Mohamed is a driver to watch closely.

Jon Lancaster, a British driver born on December 10, 1988, brings a wealth of international experience to the team. In 2024, Jon secured podium finishes in the European GT4 series, and in 2023, he achieved multiple podiums in the McLaren Trophy. His extensive background in various high-profile racing championships makes him a valuable asset for Chennai Turbo Riders, contributing both skill and experience to the team.

Emily Duggan, born on August 13, 1996, is an accomplished driver with multiple race wins in Series X3 Supercar and a strong presence in the Super3 series. She has consistently delivered top-10 finishes in the Toyota 86 Championship, demonstrating her racing acumen and competitiveness in a variety of racing categories. Emily’s success across different formats highlights her adaptability and determination.

With a mix of national champions and international contenders, Chennai Turbo Riders is primed for success in the racing world.

Speed Demons Delhi

This diverse and talented team is poised to make its presence felt representing Goa Aces JA Racing with skill and passion on the track.

Speed Demons Delhi has assembled a formidable team of experienced and emerging talent from around the world. Each driver brings unique strengths and a proven track record, making them a competitive force on the racing circuit.

Akash Gowda, an Indian driver born on August 27, 1998, has consistently demonstrated his potential in motorsport. In 2022, he competed in the Indian Racing League, and before that, he raced in the F3 Asian Championship during the 2018-19 season. Akash’s participation in these high-profile racing series underscores his dedication to climbing the ranks in motorsports.

Sai Sanjay, born on December 3, 2002, is a promising young driver from India. His career highlights include becoming the first driver from Tamil Nadu to compete in the prestigious British GT series in 2024. In 2023, he showcased his racing prowess by winning the GT Cup Snetterton Finale, and in 2022, he was crowned the MRF Formula 2000 Champion. Sai’s rapid ascent in the racing world signals a bright future ahead.

Alvaro Parente, a seasoned Portuguese driver born on October 4, 1984, brings extensive international experience to Speed Demons Delhi. Alvaro’s impressive career includes winning the 2016 Pirelli World Challenge America Championship and the 2016 Bathurst 12-Hour endurance race. In 2015, he also claimed the GT Open Championship, making him a highly accomplished and versatile driver in the world of GT racing.

Angelique Detavernier, from Belgium, was born on January 24, 1986, and has an impressive resume across various racing formats. In 2024, she competed in the Campionato Italiano Sport Prototipi, further establishing her versatility as a driver. Angelique’s accomplishments include a podium finish in the 2022 Championat de France GT4 and another podium in the 2021 Belcar Endurance Prototype series. Her experience and success in endurance racing make her a valuable asset to the team.

With a mix of youth, experience, and international success, Speed Demons Delhi is well-positioned to compete at the highest levels of racing.

Bangalore Speedsters

Bangalore Speedsters brings together a dynamic and diverse team of drivers, each excelling in different areas of motorsport and contributing to the team’s competitive edge.

Abhay Mohan, an Indian racer born on 14 April 2008, has already claimed the titles of National Karting Champion in 2022 and National Champion in the MRF 1600s in 2024. He expressed his pride in competing at home, saying, “It’s a privilege to race in this championship on home soil. I want to thank my parents and the committee for this great opportunity.”

Kyle Kumaran, born on December 3, 2002, is a young Indian driver with an impressive record on the international stage. In 2022, he became the Dubai O Plate DD2 and F4 Champion, showcasing his versatility and talent. In 2021, Kyle won the IAME Summer Series as a Senior Champion and finished as the Vice World Champion in the RMC Grand Finals for the DD2 category. His rapid ascent through the racing ranks highlights his immense potential.

Rishon Rajeev, born on October 25, 2005, is another talented young driver from India. In 2023, Rishon made waves by becoming the Vice Champion in the FIA Formula 4 Indian Championship, a significant accomplishment at such a young age. He also participated in the prestigious Ferrari Driver Academy Selection Programme in the same year, reflecting his growing reputation in motorsport. Back in 2021, Rishon secured a 2nd Runner-Up position in the MRF Formula 1600, signalling his early promise in racing.

Julius Dinesen, a Danish driver born on April 21, 2007, is one of the youngest rising stars in the team. In 2023, Julius competed in the BMW M2 Cup Germany, building on his previous success as the 2022 Formula 4 Danish Champion. His early career was marked by a European Karting race win in 2021, indicating his potential to compete at higher levels of motorsport as he continues to develop his skills.

Caitlin Wood, an Australian driver born on January 15, 1997, brings a wealth of experience and accomplishments to Bangalore Speedsters. In 2024, she was named a Barbie Sports Ambassador and made history as the first Australian woman to win a class at the Nurburgring Nordschleife. Her career also includes three podium finishes in the Porsche Sprint Challenge UK, proving her competitiveness and skill across various racing formats.

With a mix of young talent and experienced champions, Bangalore Speedsters is poised to make a strong impact.

Kolkata Royal Tigers

Kolkata Royal Tigers have assembled a team of talented and diverse drivers, each bringing a wealth of experience and success from various motorsport championships worldwide.

Nikhil Bohra, born on January 25, 2005, is one of India’s promising young racers. In 2024, he achieved a significant milestone with a win in the Formula 3 Regional Middle East Championship. His 2023 season saw him securing a podium finish in the Formula 3 Regional European Championship, as well as two wins and a pole position in the Indian Racing League. Nikhil’s consistent performances demonstrate his ability to compete at the highest levels of motorsport.

Ruhaan Alva, born on May 12, 2006, is another rising star from India. In 2023, he made a mark in the British GB4 Championship by securing a podium finish. Ruhaan was also part of the Ferrari Driver Academy Asia Pacific Zone Selection in 2022, underscoring his potential as a future racing star. Additionally, he was part of the team that won the Indian Racing League in 2022, showcasing his talent and teamwork.

Alister Yoong, a Malaysian driver born on January 10, 2003, brings significant racing experience to the Kolkata Royal Tigers. In 2023, Alister had a standout season with four wins in the Italian Sports Prototype Championship. His 2022 campaign in the Indian Racing League was equally impressive, where he contributed to his team’s championship victory and finished P3 in the drivers’ standings, with three wins and two pole positions. Alister’s accomplishments in the FIA Formula 4, with multiple wins and podiums, further highlight his skill and competitiveness.

Fabienne Wohlwend, from Liechtenstein, was born on November 7, 1997, and brings a wealth of experience and success in endurance and single-seater racing. In 2024, she secured 3rd place in the 24h Nürburgring GT4 Class, demonstrating her endurance racing prowess. Fabienne also had a successful stint in the W Series from 2019 to 2022, where she achieved one pole position and three podium finishes. In 2018, she made history by winning the Ferrari Challenge World Finals, establishing herself as a highly accomplished and versatile driver.

With a strong lineup of young talents and experienced drivers, Kolkata Royal Tigers is set to make an impact in the competitive world of motorsport.

Hyderabad Blackbirds

Hyderabad Blackbirds have assembled a remarkable team of drivers, blending experienced champions with emerging talents, making them a formidable force on the racing circuit.

Akhil Rabindra, born on May 22, 1996, is a distinguished Indian driver with a strong track record. In 2022, he claimed the Indian Racing League Drivers’ Championship, further establishing his reputation in the Indian motorsport scene. Akhil’s international experience is equally impressive, with two podium finishes in the 2022 GT4 European Series. Since 2019, he has been a driver for the Aston Martin Racing Academy, where he continues to hone his skills in high-level GT racing.

Anindith Reddy, born on February 23, 1990, brings a wealth of experience and consistency to the team. In 2022, he played a crucial role in securing a 2nd place finish in the Teams’ Championship of the Indian Racing League. Anindith’s versatility is evident from his 2021 season, where he secured a win in the Indian Touring Car Championship and triumphed in the ITC Endurance KMS 50. His experience and success in endurance racing make him a valuable asset to Hyderabad Blackbirds.

Neel Jani, a Swiss driver born on December 8, 1983, is one of the most accomplished drivers on the team. Neel’s career highlights include winning the 2016 FIA World Endurance Championship as the World Drivers’ Champion and achieving both pole position and victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. In the 2023/24 season, Neel is serving as an Audi F1 Sim Development Driver, building on his extensive experience as an F1 Test Driver from 2004 to 2012. His vast experience in endurance and Formula 1 racing brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to the team.

Laura Camps, born on March 28, 2005, is an exciting young talent from Spain. In 2023, Laura competed in the Indian Racing League, gaining valuable experience in a competitive environment. Her racing journey includes being part of the Ferrari Driver Academy in 2022, a prestigious program that identifies and nurtures young racing talents. Laura also showcased her skills in karting as a Tony Kart WSK Driver in 2022. Her inclusion in the team adds fresh energy and potential to Hyderabad Blackbirds.

With a blend of seasoned champions and emerging talents, Hyderabad Blackbirds is well-equipped to excel in this edition.

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.