The Indian motorsport community is mourning the loss of Sanjay ‘Hardy’ Sharma, the longtime head of motorsport and corporate communications at JK Tyre, who passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 61. Fondly known as Hardy, Sharma was more than just an administrator—he was a visionary who transformed Indian motorsport from a niche pursuit into a structured, professional ecosystem. His passing marks the end of an era for racing in India.
A Legacy That Shaped Generations
Sanjay Sharma’s journey with JK Tyre began in the 1990s, when motorsport in India was still in its infancy. He played a pivotal role in launching the JK Tyre National Racing Championship in 1997, a platform that gave young Indian drivers a chance to showcase their talent. Under his leadership, the championship became the breeding ground for future stars:
- Narain Karthikeyan, India’s first Formula 1 driver.
- Karun Chandhok, who also raced in Formula 1 and later became a respected commentator.
- Aditya Patel and Armaan Ebrahim, who went on to represent India internationally.
- Gaurav Gill, India’s most successful rally driver.
By nurturing these talents, Sharma ensured that Indian motorsport had a global footprint.
Building JK Tyre Motorsport Into a Powerhouse
Over three decades, Sharma transformed JK Tyre Motorsport into one of the most influential motorsport programs in the country. His contributions included:
- Circuit racing: Establishing structured championships that adhered to international standards.
- Rallying: Supporting events that tested endurance and skill across India’s diverse terrains.
- Karting initiatives: Creating grassroots programs to identify and train young drivers.
This structured approach gave aspiring racers a clear pathway from karting to professional racing, something India had lacked before his involvement.
Tributes From the Motorsport Community
The news of Sharma’s passing has drawn heartfelt tributes from across the motorsport fraternity. Narain Karthikeyan described it as “one of the blackest days in the history of Indian motorsport,” acknowledging that Sharma had shaped not just championships but entire careers. Karun Chandhok and other drivers echoed similar sentiments, crediting him with giving them opportunities that changed their lives.
Beyond Racing: A Mentor and Visionary
What set Sharma apart was not just his organizational skills but his ability to mentor and inspire. He believed motorsport could thrive in India if given the right infrastructure and support. His vision extended beyond racing circuits:
- He worked tirelessly to bring corporate sponsorships into motorsport, ensuring financial sustainability.
- He emphasized safety standards, aligning Indian racing with global practices.
- He promoted motorsport as a career option, encouraging young drivers to dream big.
The Road Ahead Without Hardy
With Sharma’s passing, Indian motorsport loses a guiding force. JK Tyre Motorsport will continue, but his absence leaves a void that will be hard to fill. His legacy, however, lives on in the drivers he mentored, the championships he built, and the passion he ignited in countless fans.
Final Thoughts
Sanjay ‘Hardy’ Sharma was more than the head of JK Tyre Motorsport—he was the architect of modern Indian racing. His vision, dedication, and mentorship elevated motorsport in India to international relevance. As the community grieves his loss, it also celebrates his extraordinary contributions. For every Indian driver who has raced on the global stage, Hardy’s influence is undeniable. His passing is a reminder that while individuals may leave, their legacies continue to drive the future.
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