Indian Grand Prix: Homecoming for young racer Zaamin Jaffer

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For Zaamin Jaffer, the forthcoming Indian GP is more of a homecoming.

The Mumbai-born Jaffer, who went and made Dubai his base to pursue a career in motor racing, can’t wait for October 30 to take the MRF Formula 1600 car around the Buddh International Circuit.

Jaffer is one of the 13 foreign drivers to participate in the MRF International Challenge, a support race during the Indian GP weekend.

The 21-year-old Jaffer, who is a regular at Formula Renault BARC championship in the UK, says it’s a great opportunity to race on his home soil.

“Formula One’s arrival in India is absolutely massive. All eyes will be on New Delhi and it’s going to be a proud moment for me to not only race at home for the first time in my career, but to be doing so on a Grand Prix weekend for the first time as well. I really can’t wait – it’s going to be huge,” says Jaffer.

Jaffer has landed in Chennai for a three-day shakedown at the Irungattukottai track. The youngster feels the Indian trip would prove pivotal in his career. “If I perform well on the big stage, I know there will be plenty of openings. I want to make the most of this special opportunity,” he added.

Jaffer moved to Dubai when he was 16 and took part in his first UAE national championship race at the Dubai Kartdrome, scoring a podium. He continued to compete in the UAE National Karting Championship finishing regularly on the podium before making his cut at the British Formula Ford Championship in 2009.

In his first season, whilst familiarising himself with a new car, team and circuits, he finished an impressive fourth in the scholarship class, taking an array of podiums along the way.