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Indian Racing League returns to Madras International Circuit for season opener

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 22, 2026, 20:51 IST

Defending champions Goa Aces JA Racing prepare to defend their title as the Indian Racing League kicks off at the Madras International Circuit, alongside the high-stakes third round of the F4 India championship.

Indian Racing League returns to Madras International Circuit for season opener

The Indian Racing League (IRL) makes its highly anticipated return this week, with the opening round of the season set to take place at the Madras International Circuit starting Friday. As India’s premier four-wheel racing competition, the league features six city-based franchise teams ready to battle for supremacy on the track.

Leading the charge into the new campaign are the defending champions, Goa Aces JA Racing. Having secured the title last season, the team enters the weekend with significant momentum and a clear objective to maintain their competitive edge. The squad will once again be spearheaded by the experienced duo of Raoul Hyman and Fabienne Wohlwend, both of whom played instrumental roles in the team’s successful championship run.

Defending champions and F4 title contenders in focus

Raoul Hyman remains a central figure for the Goa Aces, bringing consistency and pace to the team’s lineup. His partner, Fabienne Wohlwend, arrives at the Madras International Circuit following a standout performance earlier this year, where she claimed a notable feature-race victory at the Goa Street Circuit in February 2026. Their combined experience will be vital as the team looks to fend off challenges from the other five franchises in the league.

Beyond the headline IRL action, the weekend schedule is bolstered by the third round of the F4 India championship. The competition for the title is currently intensifying, with a narrow five-point gap separating the top two drivers. Championship leader Aris Kyriakou enters the round with 93 points, closely pursued by Luviwe Sambudla, who sits on 88 points. The performance of these two drivers will be a major focal point as they look to gain an advantage in the standings.

Rounding out the top three in the F4 India rankings is Bhuvan Bonu, who currently holds 51 points. Bonu will be aiming to build on the confidence gained from his recent Race-2 victory in Coimbatore. With the championship battle heating up, the upcoming races at the Madras International Circuit are expected to be pivotal for the title contenders as they navigate the technical demands of the track.