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Kush Maini wins the Formula 2 Sprint race at Circuit de Catalunya from P2, takes fastest lap and a dominant 7.2 second margin, adds more points with P9 in the Feature race.
Kush Maini won Formula 2 sprint race in Barcelona
The Indian national anthem echoed around Circuit de Catalunya on Saturday as Kush Maini delivered a masterclass in Formula 2 racing, seizing a dominant Sprint race victory to claim his first win of the 2026 season.
Starting from second on the grid, Maini needed no time to announce his intentions. The BWT Alpine F1 Team Reserve Driver executed a perfectly timed move on the pole-sitter before Turn 1, assuming the lead before the first corner had been cleared and never relinquished it.
What followed was a display of complete racecraft. Maini managed his tyres with clinical precision, controlled the pace of the race at will, and steadily stretched his advantage over the chasing pack, ultimately crossing the finish line with a 7.2-second winning margin; the second-largest of the 2026 Formula 2 season. For good measure, he also clocked the fastest lap of the race, sweeping the maximum available points and making a significant statement in the Drivers’ Championship standings.
The victory did not come from nowhere. Maini has been arguably one of the most consistent drivers on the F2 grid in 2026 – pole position in Miami, championship points in Montreal, and a cruel near-miss on the podium in Monaco, only sharpening his hunger. Barcelona was where patience and consistency finally met reward.
Kush Maini started the Feature race on Sunday, P9. Opting for the alternate strategy, he showcased another solid showing of tyre management and finished the race in P9, adding vital points in the Championship battle. With 9 rounds still to go, the young Indian driver will be one to look out for in the forthcoming rounds.
Surreal As Always
After the Sprint victory, Kush Maini commented, “It’s a fantastic feeling to win in Barcelona. I owe a big thanks to my boys at ART GP. Their hard work to ensure I have a solid car has been big for me throughout this season. Surreal as always to be the reason to play our national anthem in a foreign country and I’m sure we’ll have many more of these moments. These are big points to take back and all the right steps towards our dream. Let’s keep the momentum going.”
About the Author
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for over a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket conten…Read More
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