New Delhi, 23 December (H.S.): Formula 1 achieved unprecedented popularity across the Indian subcontinent in 2025, with the fanbase in India swelling to a record 78.8 million. This surge coincided with a thrilling season defined by stellar performances, edge-of-the-seat races, and a drivers' championship battle that extended right to the final race.

Kush Maini's gritty victory in Monaco and Arvid Lindblad's breakthrough onto the F1 grid stood out as season highlights. Meanwhile, Lando Norris's dramatic title win in the closest finale in 15 years captivated fans worldwide.

The 2025 campaign will go down as a classic in Formula 1's modern era. Lando Norris secured his maiden world championship, scripting history, while McLaren's return to the top ended a long title drought. Globally, the sport reached new heights, drawing a record 6.7 million live spectators to race tracks worldwide.

From an Indian market perspective, Formula 1's engagement has strengthened significantly. Record viewership has positioned India as a key pillar in the sport's global strategy. The extension of the exclusive broadcast partnership with FanCode until 2028 brings relief and excitement to Indian fans, ensuring continued access to the action.

Indian Talents Paving the Way for 2026

The season extended beyond track thrills, laying the foundation for Indian talents' strong global return in 2026. Despite technical challenges, Kush Maini delivered standout performances for Invicta Racing, playing a pivotal role in securing the Formula 2 Constructors' title. His memorable win in the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix sprint race became a proud moment for Indian motorsport.

Following impressive post-season testing with Alpine, Kush now prepares for the top tier with his new F2 team, ART Grand Prix.Meanwhile, Red Bull Junior Team's rising star Arvid Lindblad, with roots connected to India, earned promotion to the Racing Bulls team. His exceptional racecraft and pace in 2025 turned heads, and his 2026 F1 grid entry promises Indian fans a new hero challenging the world's best under the new technical regulations.

Global Dominance and Off-Track Success

Formula 1 has emerged as the world's most popular global sport, boasting a fanbase 11.4% larger than the NBA. On social media, it remained the fastest-growing global sports league for the fifth consecutive year, registering over 2.3 billion engagements across platforms—surpassing the NBA, UEFA Champions League, NFL, and Premier League.

Off the track, Formula 1 scored big successes too. Formula 1: The Movie dominated the box office, becoming Apple's highest-grossing film ever and the most successful sports movie in history. With global earnings exceeding $630 million, it screened across 44,000+ screens in 78 markets outside the US and Canada.

The film notably boosted youth appeal, with 43% of the total fanbase under 35 this year.Eyes now turn to 2026's new regulations, ushering in a new era with sustainable fuels and power units. The grid entries of Audi and Cadillac, alongside young faces like Lindblad and Maini carrying tricolor hopes, promise an exhilarating next chapter for Indian fans.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar