Formula 1 has seen a surge in popularity in India, with the country’s fanbase now reaching 78.8 million. The recent season witnessed remarkable performances, such as Kush Maini’s victory in Monaco and Arvid Lindblad’s quick rise to the F1 grid. The intense battle for the Drivers’ Championship kept fans on the edge, culminating in a thrilling season finale.
The 2025 season is being hailed as a modern classic, with Lando Norris clinching his first championship victory. McLaren’s return to the top after a historic drought has further fueled the sport’s popularity, attracting a record 6.7 million fans to races worldwide.
India’s connection to F1 has never been stronger, with growing viewership confirming the country’s significance in the sport’s global strategy. Extending FanCode’s exclusive broadcast deal through 2028 ensures Indian fans can stay engaged as local drivers gear up for the 2026 season on the world stage.
Not only has the 2025 season delivered thrilling on-track moments, but it has also set the stage for Indian talent to shine in 2026. Despite facing mechanical challenges, Kush Maini played a pivotal role in helping Invicta Racing secure the Constructors’ title in Formula 2. His strong performance during post-season testing for Alpine has set the stage for his debut with ART Grand Prix, as he aims to make his mark in the sport.
Meanwhile, Arvid Lindblad, a Red Bull Junior Team prodigy with Indian roots, has earned a spot on the Racing Bulls team. His impressive speed and racecraft in the 2025 season have garnered attention, with his upcoming F1 debut in 2026 poised to make him a new hero for Indian fans.
Formula 1 has solidified its position as the world’s most popular sport, boasting a fanbase 11.4% larger than the NBA. The sport’s social media dominance continues, with over 2.3 billion engagements across its platforms, surpassing other major sports leagues.
Off the track, F1 The Movie has been a box office hit, becoming the highest-grossing Apple film and the most successful sports movie to date. With global success, the movie has contributed to expanding F1’s young fanbase, with a significant portion under 35 years old.
As Formula 1 gears up for the 2026 regulations featuring sustainable fuels and new power units, a new era awaits. With Audi and Cadillac joining the grid and talents like Lindblad and Maini embodying the nation’s spirit, Indian fans can anticipate an exciting new chapter in Formula 1.
