The iconic streets of Monaco witnessed a thrilling chapter in Indian motorsport history on Sunday as Mahindra Racing stormed to victory at the 2026 Monaco E-Prix. Dutch driver Nyck de Vries delivered a sensational performance to claim the top spot in one of Formula E’s most prestigious races, giving Mahindra Racing its first victory in the GEN3 era.

As the chequered flag waved across the glamorous Monte Carlo circuit, emotions poured out in the Mahindra garage. But for Indian fans watching from thousands of miles away, the proudest moment came shortly after—when the Indian national anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana,’ echoed through Monaco once again.

While De Vries represents the Netherlands, Formula E tradition dictates that the national anthems of both the winning driver and constructor are played after the race. Since Mahindra Racing is India’s flagship Formula E team, the victory brought the Indian tricolour into the spotlight on global motorsport’s grand stage.

Nyck de Vries Ends Four-Year Wait

The Monaco triumph marked De Vries’ fifth FIA Formula E World Championship victory and his first-ever win with Mahindra Racing. More significantly, it ended a painful four-year wait for a race victory. His previous Formula E win had come back in Berlin in 2022. Since then, De Vries had explored opportunities in Formula One before returning to Formula E with Mahindra Racing, a project that initially struggled to deliver consistent results.

Starting from the front row on Sunday, the Dutchman combined smart energy management, sharp overtakes, and flawless execution to dominate the challenging Monaco circuit, a venue where even the smallest mistake can destroy a race.

Speaking after the emotional win, De Vries praised the Mahindra team for standing strong during difficult times. He also admitted that the road to victory had not been easy.

De Vries said it was an emotional moment because the team had endured a difficult start and had been on the receiving end for quite some time, adding that the victory showed the importance of staying patient as better times eventually come.

Strategy, Precision and Nerves of Steel

Monaco is known for its narrow corners, unforgiving barriers, and high-pressure racing. But De Vries remained calm amid the chaos unfolding behind him.

Despite starting second, he executed a superior race strategy during the crucial pit window and timed his energy deployment perfectly. As rivals battled aggressively behind him, the Mahindra driver kept control and steadily built a race-winning lead. Motorsport analysts described it as one of Mahindra Racing’s finest tactical performances in recent years.

A Massive Boost for Indian Motorsport

At a time when India’s presence in global racing is steadily growing, moments like these inspire a new generation of young fans and aspiring racers. From Formula E to Formula One, Indian names are increasingly becoming part of motorsport conversations worldwide.

For Mahindra Racing, the triumph also validates years of persistence and rebuilding. And for Nyck de Vries, Monaco may well become the race that reignited his Formula E journey.