India’s motorsport sensation, Kush Maini, was back in action on Friday at the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar. The young driver participated in Formula 1 testing with the BWT Alpine F1 team, who are coming off a double podium at last weekend’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix. This test marked Maini’s fourth session with the team in the past six months. He has now driven their Formula 1 car in Austria, Italy, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar.

The multi-day test at Qatar’s new circuit was Maini’s first time racing there. He will return to the track soon for the final leg of his Formula 2 season.

Maini’s latest F1 drive comes only a few weeks after his test at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, where he delivered another impressive performance. His consistent results with the BWT Alpine F1 team have positioned him as a strong candidate for the reserve seat with the Enstone-based outfit.

With three drivers from this year’s F2 class already confirmed to graduate to F1, Maini could soon join this talented pool.

Later this month, he will return to Qatar for his next Formula 2 race. With only two races left in the 2024 season, his Invicta Racing team currently leads the Constructors’ Championship standings. Securing this title would make Maini the first Indian to claim a Formula Racing championship.

With five podium finishes, including one race win this season, Maini has been instrumental in putting his team in this top position. Given his stellar performance, India may soon have a driver on the F1 grid after a 13-year gap.

(With agency inputs)