As one of the few Indian drivers competing at the highest levels of international motorsport, Ford factory driver Arjun Maini, currently competing in the 2026 DTM and GTWC Europe championships with Haupt Racing Team (HRT), continues to carve out a meaningful presence in endurance and GT racing. His rise has not only been defined by results, but also by milestones that carry national significance. Notably, he became the first Indian driver to compete in the DTM and later secured a historic podium finish at the Norisring in his 2021 debut season—marking a breakthrough moment for Indian representation in the series.
Despite these achievements, Indian drivers remain under-represented across international motorsport, particularly in endurance racing. Against this backdrop, Maini’s sustained presence in GT racing becomes even more significant.
In an exclusive interview with Pit Debrief, Maini opened up about his long-term ambitions, his satisfaction with his current trajectory, and the wider impact he hopes to have on the sport.
Maini sets sights on Hypercar future while strengthening DTM foundation
As endurance racing continues to grow in global prominence, its top tier has become an increasingly attractive destination for drivers seeking both prestige and longevity. The evolution of the Hypercar class has ushered in what Maini describes as a “golden era”, with heightened competition and manufacturer involvement elevating its status within the sport.
Maini acknowledged this shift while also reflecting on his own journey and current position within DTM. He emphasised both ambition and appreciation, balancing future aspirations with present achievements.
“I think for a driver in endurance or GT racing right now, I think the goal is for sure working the Hypercar class because that’s in the golden era. Although I’m very happy with where I am now and cementing my place in DTM, I think, for the sixth season is a very proud moment for me. So I’m very happy with how my career has gone so far. Of course, it would be great to be in the Hypercar in the future.”
Beyond Formula 1: Maini champions broader pathways for Indian drivers in GT racing
Beyond personal milestones, Maini has increasingly positioned himself as an advocate for broader awareness within Indian motorsport. For many aspiring drivers, Formula 1 represents the ultimate goal. However, this narrow focus often overshadows other viable and rewarding career paths.
Maini addressed this perception directly, stressing the importance of expanding horizons and recognising the diversity within motorsport disciplines.
“And I think in general, reaching out to all the young Indians and trying to have an influence on them and trying to show them a way that it’s not just Formula 1. We can have a career in motorsports and you can have a great long-term career in motorsports.”
By doing so, he not only challenges conventional thinking but also provides a more inclusive vision of success—one that resonates strongly in a country where opportunities in global racing remain limited.
Maini showcasing the world of GT racing
In addition to redefining career expectations, Maini actively promotes the unique appeal of GT and endurance racing. Unlike the structured ladder system of single-seater categories, GT racing offers a more varied and collaborative environment. Drivers must adapt to shared machinery, strategic complexity, and diverse race formats.
Maini’s enthusiasm for this discipline reflects both his personal experience and his belief in its broader potential.
“So yeah, come try out our amazing, you know, GT racing endurance world and mixture of so many great drivers, great races, actions, rules, mix of everything. And it’s a great world over here.”
Through this invitation, he highlights the accessibility and excitement of endurance racing, positioning it as an attractive alternative for emerging talent.
Building a legacy: Maini hoping to inspire the next generation of Indian GT and endurance racers
Looking ahead, Maini’s ambitions extend well beyond individual accolades. While competing at the highest level remains a clear objective, his long-term vision centres on influence and legacy. In particular, he aims to inspire a new wave of Indian drivers to explore opportunities in endurance racing.
This goal carries added importance given the historical lack of representation in the discipline. By establishing himself on the global stage, Maini has already begun to shift perceptions.
“And yeah, I hope I’m able to, in the future, encourage [or] influence, a whole line of young Indian drivers that try to make it into endurance racing.”
Ultimately, Maini’s journey represents more than personal success. It signals the potential for a broader transformation within Indian motorsport—one driven by visibility, ambition, and the courage to pursue paths beyond the conventional.
