As the first Indian, and only the second Asian, to make his way into the Formula 3 championships and finish on the winners’ list, Narain Karthikeyan has been a pioneer of Indian motor racing for years. Driving from a very young age, he soon turned his passion into his profession. Today he is a youth icon and an inspiration to many motorsport lovers.
Preparing for Formula One action on home soil for the first time, Karthikeyan spoke at the ticket launch of the 2011 Indian Grand Prix, scheduled for October this year, about the challenging Buddh International Circuit and the bright future of F1 in India after the race. Karthikeyan competed in the first half of the 2011 season for Hispania before being replaced by Daniel Ricciardo for the rest of the season.
In a conversation with Akshi Aggarwal of Indian Sports News, Narain talked about his place in Indian racing and the future of F1 in India. Excerpts:
ISN: Tell us something about your early days in racing.
Narain: I started racing at the age of 16. My first race was in Chennai, in a Formula Maruti. I had a passion for the sport, and my interest in racing was further encouraged by my father, GR Karthikeyan, who was the Indian national rally champion. I made my debut in Formula One at the 2005 Australian Grand Prix.
ISN: You were the first to really start Indian racing, which led to the emergence of the Force India team. How does it feel?
Narain: It’s just amazing to see India making its presence felt on the international circuit. Having a Grand Prix here at home will bring about a positive change. Hopefully Indian motorsport will be transformed and promoted, which will also allow more Indian drivers to realise their potential.
ISN: Racing is not a cheap sport and is out of the reach of the masses. Do you see that as a drawback for the sport?
Narain: Unfortunately, racing is an expensive sport, like golf or tennis. Of course, it can never be the choice of the masses. Without adequate infrastructure in the country, it becomes even more difficult to get access to the sport. Having a circuit and a Grand Prix here can change the racing scene in the coming years, and I’m sure motorsport will grow bigger.
ISN: Who are your sponsors?
Narain: TATA, Speed, MRF and Base.
ISN: Tell us about your education and other interests.
Narain: I studied business administration in London. Apart from motor racing, I quite like tennis, and I’m into yoga and meditation as well.
ISN: Who is your idol?
Narain: Michael Schumacher.
ISN: Have you visited the circuit? What are your views on it?
Narain: It’s a dream come true. I got goosebumps when I saw the circuit. It is intelligently planned and well designed, and I am quite excited. It will be a great showcase. Spectators will see the speed of an F1 car, which can go up to 320 km per hour.
ISN: What are your expectations from the Indian Grand Prix?
Narain: It will be an ideal platform to show one’s flair, and I hope I will perform well. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
