Rio Haryanto is an Indonesian former racing driver and businessman, celebrated for being the first driver from his country to compete in Formula One. He made his F1 debut with Manor Racing during the 2016 season, where he gained international attention and represented Indonesia on the global motorsport stage. Haryanto’s journey in racing began in karting, where he quickly progressed through various junior formulae, demonstrating his talent and determination.
Before entering Formula One, Haryanto achieved notable success in the GP2 Series, where he showcased his skills alongside some of the best young talents in motorsport. His 2016 F1 season was marked by significant challenges, but he made an impact by scoring points and captivating fans with his spirited performances. Despite his short-lived career in Formula One, he remains a source of inspiration for aspiring Indonesian racers.
After his stint in F1, Haryanto shifted his focus to endurance racing, participating in the 2019–20 Asian Le Mans Series and the Blancpain GT World Challenge Asia for T2 Motorsports. His versatility as a driver enabled him to compete in diverse racing formats, further solidifying his reputation in the motorsport community.
Beyond racing, Haryanto has ventured into business, utilizing his experiences in the high-stakes world of motorsport to explore entrepreneurial opportunities. As of 2024, he continues to be recognized as a trailblazer for Indonesian motorsport, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams in racing.