Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Goa has scripted a historic chapter in Indian motorsports as ace rally driver Vaibhav Marathe has been officially selected to represent India at the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) 2025, to be held in Medan, Indonesia, from July 7 to August 9, 2025. The championship, globally sanctioned and hosted under the prestigious IKATAN MOTOR INDONESIA (IMI), features the grueling IMI Sumatera Ultra-Rally Championship, comprising 12 special stages covering over 200.60 kilometers of jungle and gravel terrain.
This marks a monumental achievement not only for Marathe but also for Goa, as he becomes the first Goan ever to represent India at the FIA APRC level.
A Meteoric Rise Through the Ranks
Marathe’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Starting out in national circuits, he rose through sheer grit and determination:
• 2023: He made headlines with an impressive debut in the INRC 2 category, securing multiple podium finishes across key Indian circuits including Coimbatore, Bengaluru, and Itanagar. His performance earned him a spot among the top five overall drivers nationwide.
• 2024: Marathe claimed the coveted INRC Overall Champion title — becoming the first Goan to win the premier category in the Indian National Rally Championship. His superior driving skills, consistency, and mechanical expertise earned accolades from national media and top motorsport clubs.
• 2025: He made his international mark at the APRC India Round held at the Madras International Circuit in April, where he delivered a podium finish against seasoned international competitors. This performance was pivotal in securing his place in the Indian contingent for APRC 2025.
Recognitions & Honours
Marathe’s stellar showing has not gone unnoticed. At the conclusion of the APRC India Round, he was awarded a ₹1 lakh cash prize by the Hon’ble Sports Minister of Goa, in recognition of his achievements and for elevating Goa’s profile in national motorsport.
Adding to the accolades, the Motor Sports Association of Goa was recently presented a ₹3 lakh cash award by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant in acknowledgment of its role in nurturing local talent like Marathe. The felicitation ceremony was held on July 15, 2025, at the Goa Secretariat.
The Road to Indonesia
With his spot on the Indian team now confirmed by the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), Marathe is currently undergoing rigorous pre-event training at a specialized rally facility in Bengaluru, fine-tuning his skills for the demanding Indonesian terrain. He is set to report to the Championship Headquarters in Indonesia by August 2.
Goa Takes the Wheel on Global Motorsport Map
Describing the selection as a watershed moment, the Motor Sports Association of Goa hailed Marathe’s achievement as a beacon of hope for the state’s growing motorsport ecosystem.
“Vaibhav’s journey from regional tracks to the global stage is a shining example of what dedication, skill, and local support can achieve. He is an inspiration to every aspiring rally driver in Goa,” said the Association’s President.
The association has also issued a call to action to government agencies, corporates, and citizens to extend their support as Marathe gears up to carry the Indian tricolour onto an international rally stage.
Caption
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant felicitates Vaibhav Marathe on his selection for FIA APRC 2025 in Indonesia. Also present were Navin Acharya (Vice President, All Goa Motor Sports Association), Priyesh Volvoikar (Treasurer), Bhushan Mandrekar (Member), and other dignitaries.
With this milestone, Goa’s name is firmly etched on the international motorsports map, and Vaibhav Marathe’s participation at the FIA APRC 2025 is expected to open doors for a new generation of racing talent from the state.
