Karun Chandhok, an Indian racer who is an ex-Formula 1 and Formula E driver, celebrates his birthday today. Chandhok has come a long way in his racing career and when he's not on the circuit, he spends most of his valuable time with his wife Akshara and their kid. Here's a look at his journey on and off the race track.
Updated On: 2022-01-19 10:28 AM IST
Karun Chandhok, born January 19, 1984, in Chennai, is a racer who drove for Formula 1 and Formula E in the past.
Karun Chandok's father Vicky Chandhok is an Indian rallying champion.
In 2000, Karun Chandhok won seven of the ten races in the Formula Maruti series and was Indian National Racing Champion. He had the fastest lap in all races.
In 2001, Karun Chandhok became the youngest Asia Formula Champion. He was a driver for Team India Racing.
In 2004, Chandhok raced at British Formula 3 and finished 14th in the drivers standings.
Karun Chandhok raced along with Narain Karthikeyan in the World Series by Nissan.
In 2006, Karun Chandhok won the first-ever Formula Asia V6 by Renault Championship and won 7 of the 12 races.
In 2007, Karun Chandhok entered the GP2 Series. In 2008, he finished 10th in the driver's points.
In 2008, Karun Chandhok was linked to joining the Formula 1 team Force India but nothing ever came to fruition.
However, it was in 2010 that Karun Chandhok made his entry into Formula 1. Chandok drove for Hispania Racing alongside Bruno Senna.
Karun Chandhok was the second Indian to drive in Formula One after Narain Karthikeyan.
Karun Chandhok finished 22nd in the 2010 F1 drivers standings with zero points.
In 2011, Karun Chandhok was signed on to Lotus F1 and drove in one race at the German Grand Prix.
In 2012, Karun Chandhok drover for JRM racing at Endurance Racing. He finished 6th at 24 Le Mans.
In 2013, Karun Chandhok moved on to FIA GT Series.
In 2014-15 Karun Chandhok entered Formula E and was part of the inaugural season and finished 17th in the standings with 18 points.
In 2014, Karun Chandhok got married to his longtime partner Akshara Kothari
Following racing, Karun Chandok began a career as a commentator for BBC and Channel Four. As of 2021, Chandok is part of Sky Sports as an analyst, commentator and pit-lane reporter.
Karun Chandhok with his real-life wife Akshara and 'television wife' and journalist Lee McKenzie
Karun Chandhok shared this picture with his family as they enjoy a home-cooked meal
