Chennai | Madras International Circuit : Teenage sensation Shane Chandaria created history by clinching the 2025 FIA-certified Formula 4 Indian Championship title at the Madras International Circuit, becoming the youngest driver ever to win the prestigious crown. The 15-year-old sealed the championship during the final round of the Indian Racing Festival, capping off a sensational rookie season in single-seater racing.
Chandaria entered the decisive weekend with a 24-point lead at the top of the standings. Starting Race 1 from pole position, the Chennai Turbo Riders driver completed the 23-lap contest in 26:23.059 seconds to finish second, just behind title rival Sachel Rotge of Kichcha’s Kings Bengaluru, who clocked 26:22.674. That result was enough for Chandaria to mathematically secure the championship even before the final race of the season.
In Race 2, run under a reverse-grid format, Chandaria once again showcased his composure and racecraft, fighting through the field to finish third. Sixteen-year-old Luviwe Sambudla of Goa Aces JA Racing took the race win, while Rotge finished second, confirming his place as championship runner-up. Ishaan Madesh completed the season in third overall, rounding off a fiercely competitive championship.
Chandaria’s title win also helped Chennai Turbo Riders clinch the Teams’ Championship, underlining their dominance across the season. Earlier in the campaign, Chandaria had already made headlines by becoming the first Kenyan driver to win an FIA Formula 4 race, highlighting his rapid rise on the international motorsport ladder.
Having started karting at the age of five and previously excelling in the Kenya National Karting Championship and British karting circuits, Chandaria’s Formula 4 Indian Championship triumph marks a major milestone in his young career and firmly establishes him as one of the brightest emerging talents in global motorsport.
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