Salva Marjan on Speed, Struggles, and Smashing Stereotypes
Salva Marjan is one of India’s fastest-rising stars in motorsport. In a male-dominated arena, her grit, determination, and passion have helped her break barriers and push for greater inclusion. Despite hurdles and hardships, Salva has emerged as a fierce competitor and a strong voice for women in racing. In this conversation, she opens up about her beginnings, challenges, and dreams for the future.
How did your interest in motorsports ignite at a young age, especially coming from a place where it’s not a common path?
I’ve always loved cars, speed, and control. As a kid, my dad would bring home remote-controlled cars, and I was obsessed. Part of my childhood was spent in Bahrain, and early exposure to the internet and global media introduced me to racers like Ken Block. Watching them drift and race was like watching art in motion. That’s when I knew I wanted to be on the track someday. Of course, as I grew older, I saw the reality—racing is expensive and access is limited. It felt like a far-off dream. But I’ve always been a dreamer, and I held on to the hope that I’d make it happen one day.
How did your family react when you first told them about your dream to become a formula racer?
My parents come from a community where societal expectations often define boundaries—but they never imposed those limits on us. They focused on raising us to be strong individuals with values, knowledge, and clarity. I never felt pressured to follow a conventional path. Instead, they gave me the freedom to dream big, and that support has meant everything. Because of them, I had the courage to pursue something that once felt impossible.
You started your professional journey in Formula LGB Racing. How did that experience shape your skills and mindset?
Formula LGB Racing was my first real step into professional motorsport—and the moment I truly felt, this is where I belong. Despite the exhausting training days, every lap felt like home. What made it unforgettable was my team, DTS Racing. They didn’t just train me—they believed in me. I remember a day during training when I’d shown clear progress, but my coach, Diljit, didn’t seem impressed. That hit me. Later, he pulled me aside and said something I’ll never forget: “We’ve seen so many boys in this sport. But we want to build female drivers. We want you to go beyond the limits
That moment changed everything. DTS didn’t just teach me how to drive—they helped shape my confidence, resilience, and belief that I could do this, not just for myself, but for every girl watching.
What was it like competing in F4 India and F4 UAE?
The Middle East F4 Championship was an eye-opener. The professionalism, intensity, and sheer competition made it clear—I needed to think bigger and push harder if I wanted to be among the best. That’s what took me to the UAE.
F4 India, however, was my real test—not just to race, but to prove to myself that this passion wasn’t just a dream, it was real. After some strong practice sessions, my team engineer told me, “You’re already among the top five drivers—it’s just a few more laps and experiences before you start winning races.”
But then, reality struck. Due to a lack of sponsorship and circumstances beyond my control, I had to step back from the championship. It was a hard pill to swallow. Still, I haven’t given up. The path may have changed, but the dream remains the same—I’m just taking a different route to get there.
Motorsports are both physically and mentally demanding. What has been your biggest personal challenge so far?
It’s not just about being fast on track — you have to give everything of yourself: Mentally, physically, financially. You sacrifice comfort, time, and relationships to give your best to the sport. And the hardest part? Motorsport doesn’t promise anything in return. You are constantly taking huge risks, including your life, for something you love without guaranteeing it’ll pay you back. But the biggest challenge I’ve faced so far has been financial. I’ve had multiple opportunities — seat reservations, training slots, chances to be on track — and I couldn’t take them because of sponsorship issues.
How do you see the future of women in racing, and what changes would you like to see in the industry?
To all the women and aspiring drivers who dream of pursuing motorsport, you can do so if you truly have the passion and dedication. But more than just passion, I’d encourage you to seek clarity. Understand the sport — inside and out. Learn what happens behind the scenes: the structure, the finances, the mental game, the physical grind. Build knowledge early, so you’re not just dreaming but preparing. And to anyone who thinks they’re limited, whether by background, gender, or fear, limitations only exist within your mind.
What are your plans vis-a-vis your racing career?
Right now, my biggest focus is getting back into championship racing—and winning. I’m working relentlessly to overcome obstacles and return stronger, especially in F4 and Formula Regional championships. Alongside this, I’m building my own drift racing team in the UAE. It’s a bold step, but it’s about creating a space where raw talent can grow, even without conventional backing. I want to open new pathways for passionate drivers who may not fit into the traditional mould but have the hunger to compete.
How important is it for you to break barriers and represent India on the global motorsport stage?
Coming from a country where motorsport is still emerging—and often misunderstood—I know what it’s like to hear that this dream is “too big” or “unrealistic.” So every time I put on the helmet or step onto the track, I’m racing not just for myself, but for every Indian kid who dares to dream beyond limits.
India has the talent, mindset, and passion—it just needs more visibility and belief. I want to help shift the narrative. You don’t need to come from a racing dynasty to make it in this sport. If anything, I want my journey to be a reminder: when the world doesn’t hand you a path, you can build your own.
Quick Shots
What is your favourite race track? Suzuka, Monaco. Racing idols? Lewis Hamilton, Artyon Senna, Niki Lauda, Michael Schumacher.
One word that describes you on the track? Limitless.
What’s on your playlist before a race? I often listen to Eminem songs and calm music.
If not racing, what would you be doing? Business and creative fields, which I am still doing alongside.
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