Vikram Mathias-Sujith Kumar make thrilling return after 14 years

The duo is back after a gap of 14 years although, Mathias did keep in touch with the sport winning the Rally in Chikmagalur in 2014.

Vikram Mathias (R) and Sujith Kumar at the FMSCI Indian National Rally Championship.

It was a thrilling sight to see the winning combination of Vikram Mathias and Sujith Kumar threatening the best in the Rally of Coimbatore at Kethanur in Palladam on Saturday.

The duo is back after a gap of 14 years although, Mathias did keep in touch with the sport winning the Rally in Chikmagalur in 2014. His co-driver then was Swaroop Mohan, who had no clue about the road or the book. On that day it was purely Mathias’ experience and skill that saw them on top of the podium.

“That rally was quite difficult. The roads were slippery and lots of car did not finish. But we managed to keep the car on road and kept a cool head to be on the podium,” said Mathias.

What kept him out of rally? “Work commitments, family and many more. We did not have time for motorsports,” he said.

But with Race Concepts showing interest, Mathias, after giving it careful thought, decided to go ahead. “It all happened in a year. We tried to take part in the first round at Chennai but could not make
it. And now we are here in Coimbatore. We have put our heart and soul into it for the spirit of the sport,” said Mathias.

Five years out and there could be lots of rust. “Of course, I am not in the kind of form that I used to be but that will not stop me from giving my best shot. We are not fully prepared but have worked really hard to be right up there competing with the best and that too with my favourite co-driver Sujith. It’s a reunion of sorts,” he added.

He did not enjoy a great day on Saturday and exhibited his classy driving skills.

Can he beat the best in the business today? “That would be a miracle and a lot of luck is also involved. And, Mathias is someone who believes in miracles.