Chennai: For the upcoming drivers in the country aspiring to enter the Formula One (F1) race, India's F1 driver Narain Karthikeyan on Monday launched the Amaron-NK Racing Academy to nurture young talent.
"The academy, the first of its kind in the country, will identify and nurture young talent and give leverage to the existing racing infrastructure in the country," Karthikeyan said.
The initial activities of the academy would be held at the Kari Motor Speedway in Coimbatore.
"The activities will begin with racing workshops. It will also conduct training programmes," the Williams test driver added.
Four young drivers would be identified through a rigorous selection process and then they will be allowed to represent Amaraon and Speed teams in the JK Tyres Formula Rollon National Championship to be held August third week onwards.
Describing the establishment of the academy as a major step in the right direction, Karthikeyan said, "We aim to support those who want to take motorsport as a viable professional option.”
He explained that it was part of their long-term plan to promote motorsport. "I have gained experience over the years. Hopefully, I will be able to guide these youngsters in a better way," he added.
Amara Raja Batteries Limited managing director, Jayadev Galla said his company would support inter-school karting challenge programmes to promote the sport at the grassroot level.
"At present I am enjoying the role in the Williams team. It will make me a better driver. My aim is to get back into the Formula One racing next season. It all depends on the top order. I am optimistic," he said, adding, "We will see how this season progresses."
Karthikeyan started his first F1 year with Jordan, later christened Midland, but his association with the team was discontinued next season before joining Williams as their test driver.
Away from motorsports, Karthikeyan rued he could not catch up with the soccer World Cup owing to his busy schedule.
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