Alpine’s Young Driver Programme Gives Kush Mani Formula 1 Seat Time

The Alpine Academy’s Young Driver Programme has added another milestone for Indian racer Kush Mani. Over a weekend at Austria's iconic Red Bull Ring, the driver accumulated nearly 200 laps in a Formula 1 car, totalling roughly 850 kilometres.

After a prior test at Zandvoort, this session represented Mani's most extensive exposure to current‑spec F1 machinery before the summer hiatus ends. The first day featured the team's previous test chassis, where Mani managed 82 laps while navigating a wet‑to‑dry track and switching among wet, intermediate and soft tyres.

Day two introduced the 2025‑spec vehicle, allowing Mani to exploit dry conditions and cover more than 500 kilometres in a single run. The combined mileage showcases the driver’s stamina and adaptability under varying grip levels.

Mani currently occupies the sixth slot in the FIA Formula 2 Drivers' Championship, having secured two podiums in his last three events. The Alpine test arrives at a crucial juncture, reinforcing his confidence ahead of a return to Monza for the remainder of the F2 calendar.

Team engineers praised Mani's feedback consistency and ability to quickly settle into the new car, qualities that align with Alpine’s long‑term vision of nurturing talent for future Formula 1 seats.