Kush Maini Becomes First Indian to Win Formula 2 Race After Disqualification of Richard Verschoor
Maini's Historic Victory in the Hungarian Grand Prix Sprint Race
On Saturday, Kush Maini of Invicta Racing achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian driver to win a Formula 2 race. This significant achievement came after the original winner, Richard Verschoor, was disqualified due to technical irregularities.
Disqualification Leads to Promotion for Maini
Maini’s promotion to the top spot followed a post-race investigation by the FIA, which revealed that Verschoor’s car, number 22, did not meet the required technical specifications. Specifically, the car’s plank thickness was found to be below the minimum requirement, leading to Verschoor’s disqualification from the Sprint Race results.
Revised Results and Podium Finishers
With Verschoor disqualified, Campos Racing’s Isack Hadjar was promoted to the second position, earning the fastest lap point. Juan Manuel Correa of DAMS Lucas Oil took the final point in eighth place. Initially, Verschoor had delivered a strong performance, securing what appeared to be his fourth Formula 2 victory before the disqualification.
Race Highlights and Maini’s Performance
During the race, Maini started from the front row alongside pole-sitter Verschoor. Despite losing the lead early to Verschoor, Maini managed to maintain a competitive position throughout. He was ultimately promoted to the top position after Verschoor’s disqualification.
In the early stages, Andrea Kimi Antonelli surged past Maini into second place. However, Verschoor regained the lead, only to be overtaken by Antonelli and Maini as the race progressed. Despite being initially in second place, Maini’s consistent performance ensured his historic victory.
Final Lap and Race Outcome
By the final lap, Verschoor had established a two-second lead but was ultimately disqualified, handing the win to Maini. Hadjar finished in fourth place, while Dennis Hauger and other competitors rounded out the top positions.
This victory marks a landmark moment for Indian motorsport and sets a new precedent for future racers in the Formula 2 category.
