Being the first Indian and only the second Asian to make way in the Formula 3 championships and to be on the winning list, Narain Karthikeyan has been an Indian Racing pioneer for years now. Driving from a very young age, his passion soon became his profession. Today he is a youth icon and inspiration to many. He has set a paradigm to be idealised by many a motorsport lovers.
Preparing for Formula One action on the home track for the first time, on the ticket launch of the Indian Grand Prix 2011, he expressed his views about the challenging Buddh International Circuit and a bright future of F1 post Indian GP which is scheduled for October this year. Karthikeyan had competed in the first half of the 2011 season for Hispania before being reinstated by Daniel Ricciardo for the rest of the season.
In a conversation with Akshi Aggarwal of Indian Sports News, Narain talked about his position in Indian racing circuit, and the future of F1 in India. Excerpts:
ISN: Tell us something about your initial days in Racing?
Narain: I started racing at the age of 16, my first ever race was at in Chennai in a Formula Maruti. I had a passion for the sport and my interest for racing was further stimulated by my father G R Karthikeyan (who was the Indian National Rally Champion) .I debuted on the international circuit with Australian Grand Prix 2005.
ISN: You are the first to actually initiate Indian racing, which lead to the emergence of Force India team. How does it feel?
Narain: It’s just amazing to see India making its existence felt in international circuit. Having a GP here at home will bring about a positive change. It will hopefully undergo a transformation and we’ll see Indian motorsport promoted, which will also allow more Indian drivers to implement their potential.
ISN: Racing is not a cheap sport and out of masses reach. Do you see it as a detrimental thing for the sport?
Narain: Racing is unfortunately an expensive sport equally like Golf or Tennis. Off course, it can never be the masses choice. With no ample infrastructure in country, it becomes although more difficult to have an access to the sport. Having a circuit and a GP here in country can change the racing scenario in the coming years and I’m sure Motor sports will grow bigger.
ISN: Who all sponsor you?
Narain: TATA, Speed, MRF and Base.
ISN: Tell us about your education and other interests?
Narain: I did my Business Administration in London. Apart from motor racing, I quite like Tennis and I’m into yoga and meditation as well.
ISN: Who do you idealise?
Narain: Michael Schumacher.
ISN: Did you visit the circuit. What are your views on the same?
Narain: It''s a dream coming true. I got goose bumps when I saw the circuit. It is intelligently planned and well designed, I am quite excited. It will be a great showcase. Spectators can see the speed of an F1 car, which would go up to 320kms per hour.
ISN: What are your expectations from the Indian GP?
Narain: It will be an ideal platform to showcase one’s flair and I hope that I will perform well. Keeping my fingers crossed.
