Pragathi Gowda arrived at the 2025 rally season already regarded as one of the sharper young talents in Indian motorsport. She left it having shifted the conversation around what was possible. Competing across national and international rally events, Gowda carved out a year defined by pace, patience, and a landmark moment at the K1000 Rally, where she became the first woman driver to win a round of the Indian National Rally Championship in the INRC2 class. Alongside co-driver Chandramouli M, she not only claimed class honours but also finished 11th overall, a result that resonated well beyond the timing screens.
Ask her about highlights, and she does not rush to the trophy first. “Honestly, the top three would be the pace we managed to show even in tough conditions, the consistency we slowly built, and the amount I grew as a driver. This season genuinely taught me a lot.” That sense of progression runs through her entire year. The win mattered, but so did the evidence that she could run competitively when the roads deteriorated and the pressure rose.
That growth has not happened in isolation. “Right from the very beginning of my career, MRF Tyres has stood by me as a constant pillar of support, believing in me at every stage of the journey.” In a sport where confidence is often shaped by the people and partners around you, that backing has given Gowda the platform to focus on learning, pushing, and trusting her instincts on demanding rally stages.
Gowda met several of the goals she set for herself, particularly on the mental side of the sport. “I hit a few of my goals, especially in terms of confidence and speed. But not everything went as planned : some mechanical issues and a bit of my own learning curve held me back. Still, it all helped me improve.” Those setbacks arrived at inconvenient times, testing both her rhythm and resolve. “I didn’t expect the sudden mechanical problems at crucial moments. Those really tested my patience and mindset, but they also made me tougher.”
Away from the stages, the season carried a lighter texture. “I really enjoyed the travel, the people, and all the off-track memories with the team. Those small moments honestly make the whole season special.” It is a reminder that rallying, for all its isolation behind the wheel, is still deeply communal.
The off-season, for Gowda, is not about switching off entirely. “Looking forward to resetting a bit, training better, and testing the car with a clear head. Off-season is where the real prep begins.” Next year’s ambitions are clear and deliberately simple. “Next season, I want to be more consistent and turn our pace into actual results. Just want to come back sharper and fight at the front.”
For newcomers watching her rise, her advice is grounded and earned. “Come in with an open mind, be patient, and focus. Respect the car, the team, and the conditions – speed will come with experience.” It is the voice of a driver still learning, but already shaping the road ahead.
