Akshay Gupta, the dynamic racer and tech founder, has embarked on a thrilling new chapter in his racing career by signing a deal with Mertens Motorsport for the highly anticipated 2024 Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) season. This prestigious endurance racing championship, held at the iconic Nürburgring circuit in Germany, is renowned for its rich history and fierce competition dating back to the 1970s.
Racer Akshay Gupta signs deal with Mertens Motorsport; revs up as sole Indian driver for Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie 2024
A Historic Milestone for Indian Motorsport
Akshay Gupta’s inclusion in the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie as the sole Indian driver heralds a significant achievement for Indian motorsport. Competing against a field of over 300 drivers and 117 cars, Akshay’s journey symbolizes the spirit of determination and passion that drives him to excel on the global racing stage.
Overcoming Challenges and Pursuing Dreams
Despite facing challenges due to injuries sustained during previous championship rounds, Akshay Gupta’s resilience and unwavering commitment to racing have propelled him back onto the track. While still recuperating from surgeries on both hands, Akshay remains dedicated to his craft, actively participating in pre-season testing to prepare for the demanding NLS season ahead.
Setting Sights on Victory at Nürburgring
Piloting the Hyundai i30N under car number 492 for Mertens Motorsport, Akshay Gupta is poised to make his mark on the championship. Expressing his excitement about joining Mertens Motorsport, Akshay shared his aspirations of conquering the formidable Nürburgring circuit, a lifelong dream that now stands within reach.
Partnering with Championship-Winning Team
Mertens Motorsport, a German Racing Team established in 2020, boasts a stellar track record of success in the NLS. Having clinched the NLS VT2-F Championship title in 2023, Mertens Motorsport is recognized as a force to be reckoned with in the competitive racing landscape. Akshay’s collaboration with the team signifies a strategic alliance geared towards achieving podium finishes and showcasing India’s racing prowess on a global platform.
A Journey of Racing Excellence and Entrepreneurship
Akshay Gupta’s racing journey traces back to his early years, marked by a deep-seated passion for speed and competition. Alongside his racing pursuits, Akshay ventured into the realm of entrepreneurship, founding a Connected Car technology startup that garnered industry acclaim before being acquired by a prominent online used-car retailing unicorn. Now, with a renewed focus on his racing ambitions, Akshay returns to his roots with an invigorated spirit and a drive for success.
The Road Ahead at Nürburgring
Akshay Gupta’s debut with Mertens Motorsport kicks off at the NLS1: 64. ADAC ACAS Cup on April 6, promising an exhilarating start to the season. As he prepares to navigate the twists and turns of the Nürburgring circuit, Akshay’s journey unfolds as a testament to perseverance, ambition, and the pursuit of excellence in the world of motorsport.
Here’s a detailed championship calendar:
April 6, 2024 – NLS Race 1: 64th ADAC ACAS Cup
April 7, 2024 – NLS Race 2: 63rd ADAC Reinoldus endurance race
April 13 and 14, 2024 – ADAC 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers
June 22, 2024 – NLS Race 3: 69th ADAC Westfalenfahrt
August 3, 2024 – NLS Race 4: 6h ADAC Ruhr Cup race
October 19, 2024 – NLS Race 5: 55th Adenauer ADAC Circuit Trophy
November 16, 2024 – NLS Race 6: 56th ADAC Barbarossa Prize
Stay tuned as Akshay Gupta revs up for the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie 2024, aiming to make India proud on the international racing stage with his speed, skill, and unwavering determination.
