In a groundbreaking achievement, Cooper Webster emerged as the first-ever Formula 4 (F4) Indian Championship winner, clinching the title with a remarkable lead of 62.5 points over his closest competitor, Rishon Rajeev.
Webster, a 20-year-old Australian, showcased his racing prowess throughout the season, notching up eight race victories, standing on the podium nine times, and accumulating a total of 244.5 points. This victory marks a significant milestone in Webster’s motorsport journey, as he transitioned from being a simulated racer to conquering the real-life racing arena just last year.
The F4 Indian Championship, making its debut this year, featured the FIA-homologated Gen 2 Mygale F4 car, also utilized in the renowned French F4 championship. Organized by MP Motorsport, the championship attracted a mix of national and international talents, offering Super Licence points crucial for aspiring Formula 1 racers.
Despite a few calendar adjustments, including the cancellation of street races in Hyderabad and Chennai, the inaugural season comprised four rounds exclusively held at the Madras International Circuit.
Cooper Webster faced initial challenges, particularly with tire issues, but he rebounded strongly. Heading into the finale with a 44.5-point lead over Akshay Bohra, Webster secured pole position in both qualifying sessions, setting the stage for his title-clinching performance.
Converting both pole positions into race wins during Races 1 and 3, Webster established an unassailable lead, ultimately securing the championship with a 62.5-point advantage over Rishon Rajeev.
Race 2 saw Rajeev emerge victorious, with a post-race penalty handed to Rishab Jain. The final race of the season witnessed Shahan Ali Mohsin claim victory, concluding a thrilling inaugural F4 Indian Championship.
Reflecting on his triumph, Cooper Webster expressed, “We had trouble at the beginning with the first couple of rounds with tire issues and what not. But I put my head down and worked hard, and found some really good pace at the end of the season. So yeah, I’m really stoked about getting my first championship in race cars and also working with MP [Motorsport]; what an amazing squad they are. I’ve enjoyed my time here in India and I’m looking forward to next year where I’m going into Euro Cup 3.”
2023 F4 INDIAN CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS | ||
---|---|---|
Pos | Driver | Points |
1 | Cooper Webster | 282.5 |
2 | Rishon Rajeev | 220 |
3 | Akshay Bohra | 211 |
4 | Shahan Ali Mohsin | 202 |
5 | Alex Sawer | 186 |
6 | Rohaan Madesh | 90 |
7 | Rishab Jain | 74 |
8 | Jack Taylor | 63 |
9 | Nooris Gafoor | 57 |
10 | Arjun Chheda | 37 |
11 | Dion Gowda | 24.5 |
12 | Veer Rajwade | 2 |
13 | Shriya Lohia | 2 |