About Narain Karthikeyan:
Full Name: Kumar Ram Narain Karthikeyan
Date of Birth: January 14, 1977
Hometown: Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
Early Life and Career:
Coming from a motorsport family, Narain Karthikeyan’s father, G.R. Karthikeyan, was a former Indian national rally champion. He trained at the Elf Winfield Racing School in France, where he really impressed everyone and chose to follow a career in racing. Narain has made a name for himself in international motorsport, taking part in British Formula Ford, Formula Asia, and British Formula 3.
Key Career Highlights:
1. Formula 1 (F1) Career:
- Debut: 2005 Australian Grand Prix with Jordan
- Team(s):
- Jordan (2005)
- HRT (Hispania Racing Team) (2011–2012)
- Notable Achievement:
- Best finish: 4th place at the 2005 United States Grand Prix (due to Michelin tire controversy where only 6 cars competed).
- First Indian to race in Formula 1, paving the way for future Indian drivers like Karun Chandhok.
2. A1 Grand Prix:
- Represented Team India in A1GP, winning multiple races and bringing global attention to Indian motorsports.
- Secured India’s first A1GP win in Zhuhai, China, in 2007.
3. Le Mans and Endurance Racing:
- Competed in the Le Mans Series in 2009.
- Drove for Kolles Audi in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the most prestigious endurance races in the world.
4. NASCAR:
- Became the first Indian to compete in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series in 2010.
- Drove for Starbeast Motorsports and competed at Martinsville Speedway.
5. Super Formula (Japan):
- Raced in Japan’s Super Formula (formerly known as Formula Nippon) after his F1 stint.
- Secured a podium in the series and was competitive in Japan’s top open-wheel category.
Awards and Recognition:
- Padma Shri (2010): India’s fourth-highest civilian award for his contribution to motorsports.
- Motorsport Icon: Continues to inspire young Indian racers and advocates for the growth of motorsports in India.
Post-Racing and Legacy:
- Founded NK Racing Academy to develop and nurture young Indian racing talent.
- Actively involved in promoting karting and grassroots motorsports in India.
- Participates in various motorsport-related initiatives and remains a prominent ambassador for the sport in India.
Fun Fact:
Narain was known as the “Fastest Indian in the World” during his F1 career!