The Indian Racing Festival shifts to the high-speed Madras International Circuit in Chennai this weekend (August 23-24) for a highly anticipated Round 2. Following a thrilling opener in Coimbatore, the championship battles in both the Indian Racing League (IRL) and the Formula 4 Indian Championship are poised to intensify.
Reigning IRL champion Raoul Hyman (Goa Aces) arrives as the clear favourite after a dominant first-round victory. However, a pack of hungry challengers is in pursuit. Jon Lancaster (Hyderabad Blackbirds) will be eager to convert his early pace into a win, while Indian driver Kyle Kumaran (Kichcha’s Kings Bengaluru) demonstrated his overtaking prowess with a stunning drive from 11th to 2nd. Round 1 race winner Sai Sanjay (Speed Demons Delhi) carries home-turf momentum, and the experienced Neel Jani, an Audi F1 test driver, remains a constant threat.
The Formula 4 Indian Championship is set for a gripping duel between Greece’s Vasilis Apostolidis (Hyderabad Blackbirds) and India’s Ishaan Madesh (Kolkata Royal Tigers), who are tied at the top with a win and a podium each. They will be closely watched by F4 Shootout winner Sachel Rotge and Kenya’s Shane Chandaria, who are both aiming for the top step. The stakes are high, with every race offering crucial FIA Super Licence points on the path to Formula 1.
The circuit and weather will play a pivotal role. The longer, more technical Madras track presents a greater physical and mental challenge than Coimbatore. Forecasts predict potential rain on Saturday, promising thrilling wet-weather action, followed by a hot and humid Sunday that will test driver endurance and car reliability.
This blend of elite talent and unpredictable conditions guarantees a spectacular motorsport weekend. Catch all the action from the Madras International Circuit live on Jio Hotstar and Star Sports Select 2.
