Get to know... Sarthak Chavan

Professional motorcycle racer Sarthak Chavan (SarthakChavan075) talks about his favourite racing memories and a secret skill that comes in handy on the track

Currently I am: Travelling between India and Europe and competing across the FIM JuniorGP, Asia Road Racing Championship, and the Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship.

High point in life: In 2024, when I became the youngest-ever Premier Class National Champion in India and achieved strong international podium finishes.

Low point in life: Experiencing a tough race retirement at the Estoril circuit in Portugal during my 2026 European racing campaign. I don’t let setbacks disappoint me.

On my playlist: Lose Yourself by Eminem; Remember the Name by Fort Minor; Believer by Imagine Dragons.

One thing I would never buy: Cheap, unrated protective riding gear.

Today I’m craving: Butter chicken.

Last thing I ordered online: Cycling gear.

App I check before going to bed: Instagram.

Advice I’d give my 18-year-old self: Keep your head down, trust the process, and stay focused on the track.

My favourite subject in school: Maths.

I’d swipe right on: Kindness, honesty and determination.

My secret skill is: Being very calm in high-pressure racing situations.

My favourite Sunday memory: Winning in the Asia Road Racing Championship on 20 April 2025.

My most star-struck moment: Meeting Valentino Rossi, one of the greatest motorcycle racers, last year.

My favourite bad habit: Fidgeting with my hair.

If I could travel back or forward in time, I’d…: Travel forward to see myself racing in the MotoGP.

The best thing about fame: Having the platform to prove that an Indian rider can successfully compete and win at the global stage.

The worst thing about fame: The constant balancing act of trying to manage personal boundaries and expectations while keeping 100% of my mental energy locked into racing.

From HT Brunch, August 15, 2026

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