Racing Championship 2025: High-Stakes Battles Await at the Penultimate Round of the Indian National Car
Racing Championship 2025: The MMSC FMSCI Indian National Car Racing Championship 2025 has reached a decisive stage as it moves into its third and penultimate round, scheduled for January 4 and 5 at the Madras International Circuit. With championship titles still open across multiple classes, the upcoming weekend promises fierce competition, strategic racing, and intense pressure on drivers and teams alike. Every lap, every overtake, and every point will matter as contenders aim to strengthen their position before the final showdown of the season.
Background and Revised Schedule
The third round of the championship was initially planned for early December but had to be postponed due to adverse weather conditions caused by Cyclone Ditwah. The delay has only added to the anticipation, as teams have had additional time to fine-tune their cars and strategies. Now, with clearer conditions expected, the championship resumes at a critical juncture where momentum can define the eventual title winners.
Spotlight on Single-Seater Categories
The weekend will be headlined by the two single-seater categories, Formula 2000 and Formula 1600, which will run concurrently. These categories feature grids packed with emerging talent and are expected to deliver some of the most exciting racing of the event. A total of 12 races are scheduled across the weekend, with 61 entries competing, ensuring constant on-track action for motorsport enthusiasts.
Young Rivals and Close Margins
In the Formula 2000 category, the rivalry between Bengaluru teenager Ishaan Madesh and Pune’s Arjun Chheda has become one of the season’s defining narratives. Madesh, coming off a National Karting title win, is determined to carry that success into single-seater racing. However, championship leader Chheda holds a slim two-point advantage, making their duel one to watch closely. Similarly, the Formula 1600 class features another tight battle, with Sai Shiva Shankaran leading by just four points over Arjun S Nair, highlighting how finely balanced the competition remains.
Touring Cars and Multi-Class Drama
Beyond the single-seaters, the Touring Car category adds further depth and intrigue to the championship. This category consists of four sub-classes: Indian Touring Cars, ITC 1625, Indian Junior Touring Cars, and Super Stock. Alongside these are the MRF Saloons and Formula LGB 1300 classes, all of which have competitive grids and closely contested standings. Drivers leading these classes will be under constant pressure, frequently checking their mirrors as rivals look for opportunities to close the gap.
Indian Touring Cars: Experience vs Momentum
The premier Indian Touring Cars class is shaping up for an engaging three-race contest. Former national champion Arjun Balu currently leads the standings with a comfortable points margin, but his advantage is far from secure. Local driver Ritesh Rai has re-entered the championship strongly after missing the opening round, delivering a remarkable triple victory in the previous round. His resurgence has placed him back in title contention, adding unpredictability to the championship dynamics.
Veteran Excellence and Inspirational Performances
One of the most inspiring stories of the season comes from the ITC 1625 category, where an 80-year-old racer from Coimbatore leads the standings after achieving three consecutive wins. His performance is a testament to experience, discipline, and enduring passion for motorsport, proving that competitive spirit can transcend age and generations.
Strong Contenders Across Other Classes
In the Indian Junior Touring Cars and Super Stock categories, consistent performances have defined the leaders so far. Bengaluru’s Rithwik Thomas and Sri Lankan driver Kesara Godage have both demonstrated control and racecraft to stay ahead. Meanwhile, the MRF Saloons category has seen a strong showing from Akshay Muralidharan, whose recent double victory has placed him at the top of the standings.
The Formula LGB 1300 category also presents an interesting scenario. The current points leader has secured multiple podium finishes without registering a single race win, underlining the importance of consistency over outright victories in a tightly packed field.
Anticipation and Expectations
According to the event chairman, the return to the Madras International Circuit sets the stage for an action-packed weekend. With plenty still at stake, the races are expected to produce close battles, unexpected twists, and standout performances, particularly from young drivers eager to make their mark at the national level.
As the championship approaches its final chapter, this penultimate round could prove decisive. Fans can expect high-speed drama, tactical brilliance, and relentless competition as drivers push themselves and their machines to the limit in pursuit of national racing glory.