Sambudla dominates to take F4 Indian lead at Madras International Circuit

Luviwe Sambudla dominated the third round of the F4 Indian championship at the Madras International Circuit on Friday, claiming two wins and a third-place finish to move to the top of the standings.

The 3.717-kilometre Madras International Circuit hosted the third round, where Sambudla produced strong pace and racecraft, winning the opening two races from sixth on the grid before completing his weekend on the podium. His results across the weekend overturned his deficit in the title race and reshaped the championship battle. Third-round honours: Winner Sambudla flanked by runner-up Mabunda (left) and third Narola.

Sambudla converted a five-point deficit into a 21-point championship advantage, moving to 138 points ahead of Aris Kyriakou, who sits on 117. That points swing places Sambudla at the head of the standings following the third round.

Ntiyiso Mabunda finished second in all three races across the weekend, providing consistent results that featured on every podium. In the final race, 15-year-old Aaron Mehta produced a composed performance to claim victory and became the youngest winner in the championship’s history.

The event coverage included a podium photograph captioned: Third-round honours: Winner Sambudla flanked by runner-up Mabunda (left) and third Narola.

Separately, in the Indian Racing League opening race, Speed Demons Delhi’s Shahan Ali Mohsin converted pole position into an eight-lap win, holding off Goa Aces JA Racing’s Raoul Hyman by 0.506 seconds. Chennai Turbo Riders’ Shane Chandaria finished third, 2.690s behind the winner, while Hyderabad Blackbirds’ Mohammed Ryan recovered from seventh to claim fourth.

Sambudla’s weekend at Madras leaves him leading the F4 Indian championship on 138 points, with Kyriakou second on 117, following the third round of the series.