India women's cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues has been named the brand ambassador for the F1 Sim Racing India Open 2026, joining fellow cricketer Shreyas Iyer in promoting the nationwide sim racing championship.
Organised by Mumbai Falcons Racing (MFRL), the tournament is designed to identify and nurture India's emerging sim racing talent, offering participants a pathway to progress through the competition. The championship features a ₹2 crore prize pool, which will be deployed as a driver development fund to support aspiring racers.
The competition kicks off with Time Trials at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from July 30 to August 1, where participants will compete for a place in the next stages of the tournament.
Speaking on the association, Ameet Gadhoke, managing director of Mumbai Falcons Racing, said Formula 1's growing popularity among younger and female audiences makes it the right time to create more inclusive opportunities in motorsport. He added that Rodrigues' sporting achievements and influence align with the championship's vision of encouraging greater participation, particularly among young women.
Rodrigues said sport has the ability to break barriers and inspire future generations. Drawing parallels between cricket and racing, she noted that both require quick decision-making, consistency and composure under pressure. She added that she hopes the initiative encourages more young girls to see motorsport as a sport they can pursue while giving aspiring racers an opportunity to compete and develop their talent.
