Five things we learned from the Indian GP

The coronation of Sven Schubert

Sven Schubert travelled to India in the best possible position to secure the title once and for all. Sixth place would have been enough for him – regardless of what his closest rival Fabian Walter achieved.

However, the Swabian made a small mistake in qualifying, securing only seventh place on the grid. But in the race, Schubert showed himself to be the driver we have come to know this season – calm, composed and relentlessly efficient. Lap after lap, he worked his way forward, ultimately benefiting from the tussle between Kolvenbach and Walter to take the lead. He held on to this position until the finish line.

This marked Sven Schubert's second VFC championship title in his career. With nine victories and a podium finish in every race except Zandvoort, his dominance was impressive. Schubert made his mark on the 2025 season like never before. A well-deserved champion in every respect.

Tim Hauck's performance explosion

The surprise of the weekend was Tim Hauck. The Ottimale EM driver delivered a flawless performance at the Buddh International Circuit and ultimately finished in sixth place.

Even beforehand, it was noticeable that Hauck regularly used the training server together with Heiko Kolvenbach – apparently with a noticeable effect!

It remains to be seen whether Hauck can maintain this form in the last two races. But in India, he finally showed flashes of the talent that many experts have long seen in him.

Fabian Walter - All or nothing

Fabian Walter showed an unusually aggressive side in India. The normally fair and calm driver went into the duels with an open visor – sometimes bordering on illegality. This caused quite a stir in the paddock.

Walter, otherwise known as one of the most respectful drivers on the grid, seemed to be putting all his eggs in one basket in India – a last-ditch, desperate attempt to keep the championship battle against Schubert alive. Passionate, but risky. It was a performance that showed how much Walter wanted to postpone the decision – and how fine the line between aggression and over-motivation can be.

Stefan Schubert - Back to old habits

For Stefan Schubert, the veteran of the VFC, the race in India did not go so smoothly. After a quiet and uneventful season, he slipped back into old habits this time. During a safety car phase, Schubert suddenly slowed down considerably, apparently to let the leading quartet pass – which is not allowed under the regulations.

The misunderstanding caused him to come to a brief standstill on the track – and thus also unintentionally held up Fabian Walter, who had not yet made a pit stop at that point. It was an unfortunate scene that sparked debate and brought the experienced Swabian back into the spotlight – but this time for the wrong reasons.

Indien - A successful debut

After the rather tough race in Mugello, many drivers were sceptical as to whether the Buddh International Circuit would deliver exciting races. But India proved everyone wrong.

The VFC debut in Greater Noida featured thrilling battles, several lead changes and an exciting race. Only the narrow pit lane entrance caused some discussion and minor incidents.

Overall, however, it is a successful debut that leaves us wanting more. Dhanyavaad, Bhaarat – we would love to come back!