Kumar's racing team made an electrifying debut at the Michelin 24H Dubai endurance race, clinching third place in the 991 category. Adding to the triumph, Kumar was honoured with the prestigious "Spirit of the Race" award in the GT4 category. Speaking about his choice to debut at this high-stakes event, Kumar's words carried a confident edge:“This is just my practice ground to test out my equipment and racing plan. The main game is at the Michelin 24H Barcelona 2025 Main Race taking place from 26-28 September this year.”
Kumar's gratitude for his team was evident as he gestured to teammates Fabian Duffieux, Mathieu Detry, and Cameron McLeod.“Most drivers don't like to share their data or engineers, but my team has been so transparent, teaching me everything I need to know to get this far. I owe this win to them,” he said with heartfelt sincerity.
The Roots of a Racer
Kumar, whose cinematic journey began in 1990 with En Veedu En Kanavar and now boasts a portfolio of 61 films, has two eagerly awaited Tamil-language releases this year: Vidamuyarchi and Good Bad Ugly. He credits his racing resilience to his diverse past.“My project management skills stem from my early careers as an apprentice mechanic and a model, among others. And my persistence? That's all thanks to my wife, Shalini. She's been acting since the age of three, and she's taught me what it means to keep going no matter what,” he shared, his voice brimming with pride.
Kumar's acknowledgment of Shalini's unwavering support struck a chord with fans.“She's the reason I can race today. She let me chase this dream, and I'll forever be grateful,” he added with a rare glimpse into his personal life.
A Record-Breaking Phenomenon
The 2025 Dubai 24 Hour Race witnessed an unprecedented turnout, with fans swarming the stadium in numbers unseen in its 19-year history. International motorsports enthusiasts even remarked that Kumar's presence rivalled the fandom of veteran racer Max Verstappen. When asked about the added pressure of his massive fanbase, Kumar's response was as unflinching as his racing spirit:“I'd be naive to say that the massive presence of my fans doesn't add to the pressure. But I've never been afraid of losing. I love them unconditionally and hope this translates to motorsports earning its due credit among the Indian diaspora, like cricket.”
Kumar's win has been celebrated across the film industry, with actor R. Madhavan showing his support directly from the venue.“Ajith has made the impossible possible, and we couldn't be prouder of him for getting the Indian flag flying so high in an international competition,” he said. Actors like Kamal Haasan and Tamil Nadu's Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin took to X, formerly Twitter, to express their wishes.
The Humble Superstar
Despite his cult status, Kumar has consistently rejected the "superstar" label, urging fans to focus on their own lives rather than idolise him.“Life is very short, and time is very precious. I don't want people wasting their time. I love my fans unconditionally and am always grateful for their support,” he said, flashing his signature smile when asked about the throngs of people who waited outside his door just for a glimpse of their beloved 'Thala.'
The Road Ahead
As for the future of Ajith Kumar Racing, the actor-turned-racer is determined to stay the course.“The plan is to stay consistent while I balance my cinema career and my passion for racing. I hope the team will be here for many, many years to come,” he said, his tone resolute.
Kumar has proven that he is not just a star of the silver screen but a force to be reckoned with on the racetrack. His journey from Tamil cinema icon to international racing sensation is a testament to his grit, determination, and boundless passion for life. As the motorsport world gears up for the Michelin 24H Barcelona Main Race, all eyes will be on Kumar-the actor, the racer, the legend.