📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Michael Gäbler
Sports
Tamil Nadu CM Vijay flags off Silverstone race in UK as actor Ajith Kumar competes
✍️ The Hindu
🗓 13 Sep 2026, 04:03 AM
👁 7
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay officially inaugurated the Silverstone motor race in the United Kingdom, where popular actor Ajith Kumar was among the competitors.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay travelled to the United Kingdom to flag off the opening ceremony of the Silverstone motor race on Saturday. The ceremony took place at the historic Silverstone Circuit, a venue renowned for hosting Formula One events. Vijay, representing the state government, cut the ceremonial ribbon and gave a brief address highlighting the growing interest of Indian motorsport enthusiasts in international racing.
The race featured a mix of professional drivers and celebrity participants, with Tamil cinema star Ajith Kumar among the high‑profile entrants. Ajith, an avid motorsport fan, took his place on the grid and expressed his excitement about competing on a world‑class track.
Organisers said the event aims to strengthen ties between Indian and British motorsport communities and provide a platform for Indian talent to showcase their skills abroad. The presence of a state chief minister underscored the government's support for sports diplomacy and the promotion of motorsport in Tamil Nadu.
The Silverstone race, part of a broader international series, will continue over the weekend with several categories of cars competing. Officials expect significant media coverage in both India and the UK, reflecting the growing popularity of the sport among Indian audiences.
The race featured a mix of professional drivers and celebrity participants, with Tamil cinema star Ajith Kumar among the high‑profile entrants. Ajith, an avid motorsport fan, took his place on the grid and expressed his excitement about competing on a world‑class track.
Organisers said the event aims to strengthen ties between Indian and British motorsport communities and provide a platform for Indian talent to showcase their skills abroad. The presence of a state chief minister underscored the government's support for sports diplomacy and the promotion of motorsport in Tamil Nadu.
The Silverstone race, part of a broader international series, will continue over the weekend with several categories of cars competing. Officials expect significant media coverage in both India and the UK, reflecting the growing popularity of the sport among Indian audiences.