Kush Maini Eyes Formula One Seat as F2 Season Enters Final Stretch

Indian racer Kush Maini remains firmly focused on securing a Formula One opportunity as he looks to finish the Formula 2 season strongly and strengthen his case for promotion to motorsport's top tier.

Maini, who is in London for the Formula E season finale as Mahindra Racing's reserve driver, said his immediate priority is the five remaining F2 races, but his long-term ambition remains unchanged.

“For me, Formula 1 is my goal. It's my dream. For me, it's still very much there and that's what I'm pushing for,” Maini told reporters ahead of the London E-Prix.

The 25-year-old has enjoyed several strong performances with ART Grand Prix this season, securing two pole positions, winning the Barcelona Sprint and finishing third in the Silverstone Feature race. He also claimed second place in the Budapest Feature race.

However, Maini acknowledged that his results have not always reflected his pace. With five races remaining, he believes there is still time to make a significant impact. Maini is also part of the Alpine Formula 1 programme, contributing through simulator work and race-weekend preparations. He is scheduled to drive Alpine's 2025-specification F1 car during a two-day test at the Red Bull Ring.

The Indian driver said his previous F1 testing experience has increased his confidence, recalling strong performances alongside Alpine race driver Pierre Gasly.

Maini, however, knows that speed alone will not secure an F1 seat. Super Licence points, consistency, technical feedback and maturity will all play important roles in determining his prospects.

His return to form with ART has also boosted his confidence after difficult seasons. Maini believes helping the team recover while rediscovering his own form has demonstrated his ability to turn setbacks around quickly.

While his Mahindra connection keeps him involved in Formula E, Formula 1 remains Maini's ultimate target. He also hopes his journey can help highlight the need for stronger high-level racing opportunities for young Indian drivers.

“All the doors are open for me, but right now my main focus is F1,” Maini said.