Mercedes has announced its first 'Young Star Driver'
Mercedes India has successfully concluded its 'Mercedes Benz Young Star Driver' initiative. This one of a kind search for racing talents in India was held at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida.
Nirajan Todkari from Aurangabad, Diljith TS from Thrissur and Mezaan Anees from Bangalore took the podium with the first, second and third position respectively. Eberhard Kern, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-BenzIndia and Vicky Chandok, President, Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) flagged off the event.
From around 3200 applicants from 48 Indian cities and towns, 12 finalists were shortlisted. Finalists were picked by the FMSCI jury, comprising of motorsport stalwarts, on the basis of racing acumen, racing aptitude and accomplishments. The 12 finalists had to set lap times on the track in the new E-Class. Based on the best timings, six drivers participated in the finale and drove the latest Merc to grace the Indian roads, the E63 AMG.
The winner, Nirajan Todkari, gets an opportunity to train at the AMG Driving academy in India and then Germany, and also an internship with the Mercedes-Benz AMG Petronas team during race weekend at the Indian Grand Prix. First runner-up, Diljith TS, gets to train for the basic & advanced course at the AMG Driving academy in India. Second runner-up, Mezaan Anees, gets to undergo the basic course at the AMG Driving academy in India.
"It was Mercedes' vision to identify and nurture motorsports talents in India and 'Mercedes-Benz Young Star Driver' programme is yet another pioneering effort in realizing that vision. The overwhelming response from youngsters across India, be it small towns or big metros, aspiring to make a career on the race track has made this one-of-its kind initiative a huge success," said Eberhard Kern, MD & CEO, Mercedes-BenzIndia.