Racing Against Odds: Jay Pratap Maskey’s Motorsport Journey

People
The Buzz Nepal
March 10 , 2026

Jay Pratap Maskey’s journey began long before he understood motorsports itself. As a child, racing lived in imagination through toy cars, endless dreams, and a handmade go-kart that changed everything.

From karting to competitive racing, he has represented Nepal at the Olympic Esports Week 2023 in Singapore and competed in the Asia-Pacific Motorsports Championship 2025 in Sri Lanka and Auto Gymkhana Championships in India. Winning the National Autocross Championship 2025 stands as a defining milestone, reflecting years of discipline, learning, and dedication to the sport.

How Did Sim Racing Shape You as a Racer?

Sim racing played a major role in my development when real tracks were out of reach. I own a simulator rental and teach people the basics of racing and car control, so simulation became both my classroom and training ground.

What Did International Racing Teach You?

It helped me build focus, racecraft, consistency, and most importantly, discipline. Those long hours weren’t just practice; they prepared my mindset for real racing. Just like pilots train on simulators before flying aircraft, sim racing is the safest and most affordable way to develop real-world racing skills and muscle memory.

Competing internationally showed me what true structure and professionalism in motorsports look like. In many countries, racing is treated as a serious career rather than a weekend hobby.

There are proper tracks, clear regulations, and defined rules for both street-legal and track-focused cars. Brands actively sponsor events, creating healthy competition based on speed and reliability. Seeing this made me realize how much potential Nepal has if the right foundation is built.

How Would You Explain Autocross and Crosscar Racing?

Autocross and crosscar racing are disciplines that test pure driving skill, patience, and consistency. These events are either point-to-point or circuit-based, where the goal is to set the fastest time without making mistakes.

It’s just the driver, the car, and the clock, no direct racing against others. A single error can cost everything, and milliseconds often decide the result. The mental pressure is intense, which is exactly what makes it challenging and addictive.

Do You Feel Responsible for Future Racers?

Yes, without question. Since motorsports is still developing in Nepal, every step feels bigger than just myself. I feel responsible for showing young Nepali racers that international opportunities are achievable, even if the path isn’t conventional.

I plan to attend professional racing schools and bring that knowledge back to Nepal in an affordable way. At the same time, I strongly emphasize safety and practice should happen in controlled spaces, not on public roads.

What Challenges Have You Faced?

The journey has never been easy, especially with financial limitations and a lack of proper infrastructure. Coming from a business-oriented family, my passion for racing often seems illogical because it doesn’t promise immediate returns.

Government support is limited, but I was fortunate to receive backing from brands like Swimming Everyday, Omoda Jaecoo, and Subaru Nepal, along with close friends and mentors. Their belief helped me compete internationally. I’ve also learned that marketing yourself and staying visible is essential in motorsports.

Why Is Motorsport More Than a Hobby?

Motorsports is a demanding and high-risk discipline that requires discipline, sacrifice, and technical understanding. While racing, you’re braking, steering, shifting, and reading the car’s behavior all at once. One late brake or incorrect throttle can end everything.

Drivers are athletes, both mentally and physically. With Nepal’s terrain being ideal for rally and autocross, I believe motorsports can grow far beyond what we currently imagine.

What Is Your Message to Nepali Youth?

My passion may look unusual, but that doesn’t make it any less real. Start where you are, stay consistent, and keep learning. You don’t need to reach Formula 1, there are many racing formats that are fun, affordable, and practical. Learn from your mistakes and focus on personal growth. You are your own biggest competition.

What Has Racing Taught You About Life?

Racing has taught me that life is full of ups and downs, just like a race. Consistency and discipline matter more than perfection. If you make a mistake in one corner, you don’t dwell on it, you focus on the next one. The past stays behind, and the lesson moves forward with you. Trust the process and stay patient.

Instagram: @jay_pratap_maskey

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