Chennai: Mahindra Racing which is the first team from India to participate in the Italian Championship, today announced that its Indian rider Sarath Kumar has decided to take a break from professional racing and hence, would not be participating in the remainder of the 2012 season of the Italian Championship. Sarath has taken this decision due to certain personal reasons.

“This has been a very tough decision for me. Racing is my passion but I have to fulfill certain personal commitments here in Chennai. I have therefore decided to take a break from the Italian Championship and focus on my family.  It’s been a great learning experience being part of the Mahindra Racing team for the Italian Championships. I am really grateful to Mahindra for supporting me by way of a financial grant and for giving me the opportunity to compete internationally. I look forward to returning to the circuit soon,” said Sarath.

Sarath was the first Indian to participate in the MotoGP 125CC World Championship. He was the 2010 National Champion of India in the 165CC Expert Class and the 2008 National Champion in the130 cc 4-stroke novice class. He was the first Indian to secure a podium at an international motorsports event when he competed in Monza as part of the Mahindra Racing team. Mahindra Racing has decided to respect Sarath’s decision and has relieved him from his contractual obligations towards the team in light of the above.

Indian Sports News Network