How Did Teen Prodigy Shane Chandaria Win the Formula 4 Indian Championship?
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Synopsis
In an exhilarating finale at the Madras International Circuit, 15-year-old Shane Chandaria claimed the FIA-certified Formula 4 Indian Championship title, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in motorsport. His remarkable journey from rookie to champion reflects his tenacity and skill, making him a driver to watch for the future.
Key Takeaways
- Shane Chandaria became the youngest champion at 15.
- He secured the title in the FIA-certified Formula 4 Indian Championship.
- The event took place at the Madras International Circuit.
- Chandaria's journey reflects his tenacity and skill in racing.
- His team, Chennai Turbo Riders, won the Teams’ Championship.
Chennai, Dec 14 (NationPress) Shane Chandaria has emerged victorious in the third season of the FIA-certified Formula 4 Indian Championship, a key part of the Indian Racing Festival, becoming the youngest champion at just 15 years old at the Madras International Circuit.
Entering the 2025 season as a rookie, the young driver from Kenya concluded the championship as the undisputed victor. Leading by 24 points going into the weekend's fifth and final round, he faced stiff competition from seasoned rivals on a challenging track.
However, the driver, affectionately known as ‘Baby Samurai’, rose to the occasion and seized the championship early on in race 1. Starting from pole position, he completed the race in just 26 minutes and 23.059 seconds, finishing second to Sachel Rotge from Kichcha’s Kings Bengaluru, who clocked 26:22.674. This top two finish was sufficient to secure the title.
Even after clinching the championship, Chandaria and Rotge continued their rivalry in race 2. Despite starting from the back due to a reverse grid, they showcased remarkable skills, finishing on the podium with Chandaria taking third place behind 16-year-old Luviwe Sambudla from Goa Aces JA Racing and Rotge.
Chandaria and Rotge's dominance was evident throughout the 2025 season, finishing first and second respectively, while seven-time Indian National Karting Champion Ishaan Madesh claimed third place. Additionally, the Chennai Turbo Riders, Chandaria’s team, secured the Teams’ Championship.
This championship win establishes Chandaria as a noteworthy talent in motorsport. With Indian roots, he began racing at the age of five and excelled in the Kenya National Karting Championship, earning Rookie of the Year in 2021 and winning the title in 2022.
He transitioned to the UK for the 2024 British Karting Championship before moving to single-seaters through the Formula Global Shootout Program (FGSP). Notably, during Round 2 in Chennai, he made history as the first Kenyan to win an FIA Formula 4 race.
Point of View
Shane Chandaria's triumph in the Formula 4 Indian Championship is a testament to the emerging talent in Indian motorsport. His success story resonates with aspiring racers and underscores the growing popularity of motorsport in India. The championship not only showcases individual excellence but also the potential for greater global representation in the field.
NationPress
15/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Shane Chandaria?
Shane Chandaria is 15 years old.
What championship did Shane Chandaria win?
He won the FIA-certified Formula 4 Indian Championship.
Where was the championship held?
The championship took place at the Madras International Circuit in Chennai.
Who was Shane Chandaria's main competitor?
His main competitor was Sachel Rotge from Kichcha’s Kings Bengaluru.
What previous achievements does Shane Chandaria have?
He has won the Rookie of the Year honors in 2021 and the National Championship title in 2022.
