Renowned actor Akkineni Naga Chaitanya visited Chennai to witness the Formula 4 night street race, expressing enthusiasm for the event’s impact on budding drivers. He remarked to the media, “It’s been an incredible experience. I never imagined such an event would happen in Chennai. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Chennai government and its people for supporting this sport.” Reflecting on the Indian racing festival, he added, “The league provides a crucial platform for young drivers, making motorsports more accessible and offering promising futures. Events like this inspire countless enthusiasts and nurture ambition among the youth. I’m truly delighted.”
Meanwhile, the Indian F1 qualifying rounds are underway at the Chennai circuit, followed by the JK FLGB 4 Race 1 and IRL qualifying for Driver A category. Actor John Abraham and former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly also attended the event on Sunday to witness the thrilling sports extravaganza.
Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Sports Development and Youth Welfare, Udhayanidhi Stalin, flagged off the race on August 31, 2024. Among the dignitaries present were Tamil Nadu Ministers. Subramanian, Sekar Babu, SS Sivasankaran, and officials from the Tamil Nadu Sports Department and IRL.
The second round of the Indian Racing Festival 2024 is scheduled to thrill audiences on August 31 and September 1 at the Chennai Formula Racing Circuit (CFRC), spanning a 3.5-km track. This unique street night circuit around Island Grounds near Marina Beach will feature cars racing in an anti-clockwise direction, passing iconic landmarks like the Victory War Memorial, Napier Bridge, Swami Sivananda Salai, and Annasalai.
Organized by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) on behalf of the Tamil Nadu government, Round 2 of the Indian Racing Festival promises to make sporting history in India. Over 40 drivers will compete, showcasing their skills and setting new benchmarks for motorsport in the country. The event’s exhilarating energy and the challenging street circuit layout are set to deliver an unforgettable spectacle.
Ahead of the races, drivers participated in a “track walk” across the street circuit on Saturday to familiarize themselves with the 3.5 km route. They later navigated through the technical bends, experiencing the thrill of the fast lanes. Feedback from all drivers was positive, unanimously approving the track for its challenges and excitement.