Chennai, 14 November 2024: The atmosphere was electric at the Madras International Circuit as the curtain fell on the National Karting Championship finale. While the spotlight was on the podium finishers, the newly-inaugurated Madras International Karting Arena (MIKA) also captured attention. Named after Mika Hakkinen, the two-time Formula 1 World Champion, who inaugurated the facility just a week prior, MIKA set the stage for the emergence of fresh talent in Indian motorsport.
Among the standout performances that evening was an inspiring display by 18-year-old Krish Gupta, a rising star in the Senior Karting category. Starting from P19 in the final race, Krish battled his way through the field to finish an impressive fifth—a feat that earned him recognition despite not making it to the podium. This determination and resilience have marked him as one to watch and the commentator did not miss his marauding march that day. “amidst all these winners there is a fine performance today,’’ he announced. “It was Krish Gupta who started last and finished fifth.”
Rising Through the Ranks
Hailing from Mumbai, Krish began his karting journey in 2021 at Ajmera Indikarting. He quickly joined the Rayo Racing Academy, where his natural talent and commitment to the sport flourished. Over the past three years, Krish has secured 22 podium finishes, including 8 wins, and clinched four karting titles across junior and senior categories.
In 2024, he competed in the Senior Max category of the Meco FMSCI National Rotax Max Championship. Despite challenges, including mechanical failures and racing incidents, Krish’s skills were on full display. Notably, he qualified on pole in the fifth round with a lap time of 51.315 seconds and won the first heat before a series of incidents placed him at the back of the grid for the final. Undeterred, he delivered a remarkable comeback, finishing in the top 10 overall standings in the championship.
“It’s been a fantastic season,” Krish shared. “While the results didn’t always go my way, I’m proud of my performances and excited for what’s ahead.”
“Krish is a very promising talent for India. In a very short while he has grown tremendously. His talent combined with his hard work and dedication will take him far.
“He is now recognised as one of India’s best. He has proved himself at the Asian level with his nomination from the Asian Rotax Championship to represent India and Asia at the World Rotax Championship,” said Rayomond Banajee, a multiple national champion and mentor of many National champions. He is a respected figure in the Indian motorsports administration and in nurturing of fresh talent. This reporter has covered many of Rayo’s magnificent victories over the years.
A Global Stage: The Rotax Max Grand Finals
Krish’s talent earned him a good opportunity to take part in the prestigious Rotax Max Grand Finals in Sarno, Italy, where he competed in the challenging DD2 category representing fmsci and India. Sharing the track with global karting legends, including four-time British champion Macauley Bishop, was a defining moment for Krish.
“The Grand Finals were unforgettable,” he said. “Every lap was a challenge, and racing against the best in the world was a dream come true. Meeting Macauley Bishop was inspiring and a reminder of the heights I aspire to reach.”
Reflecting on his journey, Krish emphasized the lessons learned and the memories made. “This experience has deepened my passion for the sport. I’m determined to train harder and aim for the front.”
Professional Karting Journey
Season 2022
Krish debuted in the Indian Rotax Max Challenge senior category in 2022, a season marked by competitive grids and valuable learning experiences. He displayed promising pace, with six top-five finishes, including a standout performance in the wet during Round 4, where he climbed from 14th to 2nd.
His international debut came in the IAME Asia Series in Malaysia, where he finished a respectable 8th under mixed conditions.
Season 2023
Building on his rookie season, Krish’s 2023 campaign showcased significant progress. Competing in both domestic and international championships, he earned his first international podium with a strong 3rd place in the IAME Asia Series. On home soil, he achieved his first national pole position in wet conditions at the Rotax Max Challenge Asia Trophy in Pattaya, Thailand.
Season 2024
Krish’s 2024 season began with a podium finish in the Rotax Max Challenge Asia Trophy in Thailand, marking his first international podium. Back in India, despite technical setbacks, he displayed resilience, finishing 2nd in Round 3 of the National Championship.
Looking Ahead
Krish Gupta’s talent and dedication are evident, and his journey showcases the potential of this young Indian racer. As he continues to hone his skills and push his limits, Krish is poised to make a mark on the global stage, if he does not lose focus and nurtured properly. With the right support and guidance, this budding star is on track to go places.
