Shane Chandaria Wins Formula 4 India
Shane Chandaria clinched the Formula 4 Indian Championship on Sunday at the Madras International Circuit, securing the title during the opening race of the final round thanks to a controlled second-place finish that put the championship beyond reach with races still to spare.
The 15-year-old Kenyan driver entered the weekend leading the standings and delivered under pressure, starting from pole position and completing the 23-lap race in 26 minutes and 23.059 seconds, a result that confirmed him as the youngest champion in the history of the series.
Title Secured Despite Tight Finish
Chandaria did not need to win the race to seal the crown, but his performance left no doubt. French driver Sachel Rotge crossed the line first after stopping the clock at 26:22.674, yet Chandaria’s points advantage meant the championship was decided immediately after Race One.
“I knew what was required, and the focus was on finishing smart,” Chandaria said in comments released by the F4 India organisers. “The car felt strong all weekend, and securing the title like this is an incredible feeling.”
Rotge, who pushed Chandaria throughout the season, acknowledged the achievement despite missing out on the championship. “Shane was consistent all year,” Rotge told championship media. “Today’s win feels good, but the title was decided by his work over the entire season.”
Consistency Defines Championship Campaign
The championship victory capped a season built on regular podium finishes rather than isolated wins. Chandaria remained a front-runner across every round, adapting quickly to different circuits and maintaining points-scoring momentum even under reverse-grid conditions.
A Formula 4 India official highlighted the significance of the achievement. “Winning this championship at 15 shows exceptional maturity,” the series spokesperson said. “Shane managed pressure, strategy and racecraft at a level beyond his years.”
Historic Moment for Young Driver
The 2025 Formula 4 Indian Championship, part of the Indian Racing Festival, began in August at Kari Motor Speedway and concluded in December at Madras, with Chandaria’s title adding a landmark moment to the competition’s history.