ISB Student Farhan Bin Shafeel Gears Up for Rotax Max Challenge in Bahrain
The Indian School student, Farhan Bin Shafeel, aged 14, has qualified to participate in the Bahrain Rotax MAX Challenge 2025 (BRMC) in the Senior Max category. A Grade 8-I student, Farhan is currently training with NorthStar Racing, a professional karting team, and continues to make impressive progress in Bahrain’s dynamic motorsport scene
Farhan, an Indian national based in Bahrain, has already begun to make his mark in the local motorsport circuit through consistent training, discipline, and passion. Despite his young age, he has shown commendable commitment and perseverance, reflecting the qualities of a dedicated athlete determined to achieve excellence at an international level.
Farhan’s passion for motorsport began remarkably early when he surprised his family by accurately identifying car brands. What started as a childhood fascination soon grew into a serious pursuit of a racing career. Inspired by years of following international racing championships and studying racing techniques, Farhan nurtured his ambition of becoming a professional racer.
The eldest of four children of Mr. Shafeel Muhammed and Mrs. Shareena Mohammed, Farhan hails from Edappal in Kerala. His first on-track experience was at the Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC) during a rental karting session. His remarkable performance during a 24-hour karting assessment at BIKC impressed coaches and earned him a place on the NorthStar Racing team, where he continues to receive professional guidance and technical training.
Now equipped with his own kart, an official racing licence, and a structured training schedule, Farhan is gearing up for the upcoming Rotax MAX Challenge season. He is also seeking sponsorship and community support to sustain his journey in competitive racing, with hopes of representing Bahrain and India on the international stage.
Recently, he secured the 10th position in his last senior category race—a significant accomplishment for a young racer competing among seasoned professionals. Farhan is competing now for the season 2025-2026.
Farhan’s father, Mr. Shafeel Mohammed, works in a private IT firm (Amadeus) in Bahrain, while his mother, Mrs. Shareena Mohammed, is a homemaker. His younger siblings— Hanan (Class 4E), Salman (Class 2W), and Adnan (UKG-K)—are also students of The Indian School. The family relocated to Bahrain two years ago after residing in Saudi Arabia.
Farhan said he dreams of one day competing in the Formula 1 Grand Prix and representing young Indian talent on international racing circuits. His determination and achievements at such a young age serve as an inspiration to fellow students and aspiring athletes.
ISB Hon. Chairman Adv. Binu Mannil Varughese, Hon. Secretary V. Rajapandian, Hon. Vice-Chairman & Member-Sports Dr. Mohammed Faizal, Hon.Member -Projects &Maintenance Mithun Mohan, Hon.Member -Transport Mohammad Nayaz Ullah, other Executive Committee members, Principal VR Palaniswamy and Senior School &Academic Administration Vice-Principal G Satheesh congratulated Farhan on his achievement and extended their best wishes for his continued success in future competitions.
Posted on 20 October 2025
