Kush Maini is a rising star in the world of motorsport. He’s in the headlines these days because of his recent appointment in the Alpine team in F1. He made history by becoming the first Indian driver to be a part of an F1 team after 2012. He’s also only the third driver to be a part of an F1 team after Narain Karthikeyan and Karun Chandok.
He joined the team as a test and reserve driver for the BWT Alpine F1 Team for the 2025 season. Alpine made this announcement through their social media accounts and wrote, “Kush Maini. 2025 Test and Reserve Driver. We’re delighted to announce, our Alpine Academy driver extends his role to join our pool of Test and Reserve Drivers for the 2025 season,”
Even though his role is temporary as of now, his strong performance this season could also make him a contender for a full-time role in 2026. Kush Maini shared his excitement for this new beginning and said, “I am delighted to step up to the role of Test and Reserve Driver for BWT Alpine Formula One Team this season. Since joining the Alpine Academy ahead of last year, I have been incredibly welcomed in the entire Alpine family and I am thankful to Flavio and Oliver for their continued support.
“I am looking forward to getting more track time in Formula One machinery in this role and to build on what I have already learned with the team in 2024. I’m very excited to begin the role as soon as possible but for now my focus is on my third season in Formula 2 kicking off this weekend in Australia.” Kush Maini added
He began his career in 2016, competing in many prestigious championships like the Italian F4 Championship, FIA Formula 3 Championship, and Campos Racing. His recent achievements include his maiden F2 victory in Budapest, where he secured five podiums in 2024.
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The Director of Alpine Academy, Julian Rouse, also said, “We are very happy to announce the expansion of Kush’s role in the Alpine Academy to include Test and Reserve Driver duties for the team this season. Kush has impressed the team across his TPC performances and Formula 2 results whilst we have been working with him and we expect he will continue to do so in 2025.”
He is currently being mentored by the two-time F1 champion Mika Häkkinen who believes in the full potential of Kush Maini and said, “Kush’s inclusion into the BWT Alpine F1 team for 2025 as a reserve and test driver is a big step forward not only for his journey but also for Motorsport in India. As his mentor, I’ve seen his dedication and talent firsthand, and this recognition was long due. This is an exciting time for motorsport in India, and Kush is leading the way for the next generation. The journey is just beginninglet’s support him all the way!”
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