MOTORSPORT – Bahrain-based karter Vansh Benani recently secured an impressive podium for second in the senior category final of round five in the IAME Series India 2026 – in what was the first competitive race of his life.
The 16-year-old Canadian, who is a year 13 student at St Christopher’s School, is a member of Oryx Racing in the kingdom, where he has been developing his karting skills. Until the IAME Series India event, however, he had never competed in an organised karting race.
His debut weekend therefore added considerable challenges, hitting the track in a new country and a new circuit, and with a new team – all during a night event that was affected by rain.
Competing in the IAME X30 senior category with Kartkrew Motorsports, Benani quickly adapted to the high-octane environment.
He finished third in the 14-lap super heat before going one better in the final, where he joined race winner Kairav Roberson and third-placed VV Viswajit on the podium.
The meeting was held under lights at Madras International Karting Arena in Chennai, where the wet conditions required the drivers to contend with a slippery circuit and changing levels of grip.
Despite having no previous race experience, Benani maintained his composure and quickly adapted, while his runner-up result was made even more memorable by the presence of India’s first-ever Formula One driver Narain Karthikeyan.
“To finish second in my very first race is a very special feeling,” said Benani.
“The conditions made the race extremely challenging, particularly after the rain, and racing at night was a completely new experience for me.”
“I am grateful for everything I have learned racing in Bahrain, which helped me adapt to the conditions and stay focused throughout the weekend.
“It was also very special to race in the presence of Narain Karthikeyan, who has inspired so many young racers by becoming India’s first F1 driver. I would especially like to thank my coaches and everyone who made it possible for me to compete in my first race.”
Benani’s second-place finish provided a memorable start to his racing career and valuable experience as he looks to continue developing as a driver.
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