An old video of Indian racer Arjun Maini has resurfaced on social media, showing him in an explosive moment during a Formula 2 race in France. Maini, who now competes in the DTM Series with the Mercedes AMG HRT team, made his F2 debut in 2018 and was expressing frustration about his car engine’s performance and the lack of equipment in F2 at the Circuit Paul Ricard in France.
The video, although from six years ago, sparked reactions online especially on the microblogging platform X. Some users raised concerns about the treatment of Indian drivers compared to those from Europe and the Americas in motorsports.
The heartbreaking radio message from the Indian F2 driver Arjun Maini. pic.twitter.com/bJsDJqsEJD
— Historic Vids (@historyinmemes) April 7, 2024
Former F1 racer Karun Chandhok, who was with Maini at the time of the incident, dismissed speculations about nationality-based treatment in motorsports. Chandhok explained that adrenaline and emotions contributed to Maini’s outburst, emphasizing that drivers are treated equally on the race track regardless of their background.
We’ve all got to be a little bit patient with Jehan
Chandhok, the first Indian to compete in Formula E, advised patience for Jehan Daruvala, the second Indian driver in Formula E after successful seasons in Formula 2. Daruvala, starting with Maserati MSG Racing, faced initial challenges in Formula E but earned his first points at the Misano E-Prix.
Chandhok highlighted the differences in Formula E and urged supporters to give Daruvala time to adapt to the unique demands of the series. With Daruvala being the only rookie this season, Chandhok acknowledged the tough competition he faces from experienced drivers.
Let’s go, @DaruvalaJehan!! ⚡️
The @maseratimsg man is the first Indian driver to score points in Formula E since @karunchandhok, having recorded a P9 finish in the #MisanoEPrix Round 7! pic.twitter.com/ZugvzKUJbU
— Formula E (@FIAFormulaE) April 15, 2024
After scoring points in Misano, Daruvala’s next race is the Monaco E-Prix on Saturday, 27 April.
