Chennai Super Sonics to rope in Muralitharan as brand ambassador

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Narain Karthikeyan seems to be the most sought-after driver in the i1 Super Series as the franchisees are having the pioneer of Indian racing on top of their wish list.

Chennai franchisee owner K. Raghu Ramakrishna Raju said he would love to see Narain sporting the colours of Super Sonics in the much-awaited racing league.

“The driver selection process is based on a draft lottery (lot system). But if we are lucky enough to pick first, our choice will be Narain,” added the chairman and managing director of Ind-Barath Power Infra Limited, who
operate eight power projects in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh and Kerala.

Raghu is confident that the i1 Super Series, which is modelled after Indian Premier League, will be a big hit. “No doubt, it’s an exciting concept. That’s why we pounced on the opportunity to join the bandwagon. We have a pro-active promoter in Machdar Motorsports and with Sachin Tendulkar as brand ambassador the series will attract a lot of interest. The league has a good revenue
model with branding opportunities on the car and driver overalls,” said Raghu.

The single-make series will have nine teams competing in 18 identical Radical SR3 cars. Raghu says the level-playing field will be a treat for the speed enthusiasts.

“Unlike Formula One, the fact that teams are not allowed to tinker the machine will ensure enthralling race weekends. The concept of providing platform to local youngsters to rub shoulders with some of
the big names will only improve the quality of motorsport in India,” said the 49-year-old who is also an active golfer.

The Chennai Super Sonics are planning to rope in a sports personality and a cine star as star ambassadors.

‘Son-in-law of Chennai’ and legendary spinner Muttiah Muralitharan is on the verge of signing on the dotted line.

“Sports lovers in Chennai are no strangers to motorsport as the city has been the hub of racing activities. But we are planning an array of promotional events here to boost the profile of the event. Our logo is taking shape and our marketing team is working on a theme song as well,” added Raghu.

Super Sonics are so committed to promote motorsport and nurture young talent that they are planning to launch a talent hunt programme.

“I can guarantee that the i1 Super Series will not be just a six-week affair. Our activities will be round the year. We are also looking to developing more racing facility in the city,” Raghu concluded.