In a significant development for motorsport enthusiasts, the India leg of the MotoGP championship, originally slated for September, has been rescheduled to March 2025. The decision was conveyed by local race promoters to PTI on Tuesday, marking a strategic shift in the event’s scheduling.
Reports surfaced earlier, suggesting unsettled payments between race promoters and rights holders Dorna following last year’s inaugural round, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the upcoming event scheduled for September 20-22. However, a constructive meeting involving key stakeholders, including Dorna, co-promoters Fairstreet Sports, and the Uttar Pradesh government, resulted in a consensus to postpone the round to a date in March 2025.
Addressing concerns about outstanding dues, a spokesperson for the promoters denied any correlation between the postponement and unpaid fees. They emphasized ongoing payments and a commitment to clear remaining dues by the following month. Explaining the rationale behind the decision, logistical considerations were cited, with organizers opting against scheduling the event in November to avoid strain on teams and riders due to four consecutive races.
The inaugural race at the Buddh International Circuit witnessed a substantial turnout, with over 50,000 spectators in attendance. Anticipation is high for the rescheduled event in March, buoyed by expectations of increased attendance owing to favorable weather conditions. With the current MotoGP season commencing in Doha on March 10, organizers have the flexibility to slot the India round the following week. Notably, ahead of the 2023 edition, Dorna and local promoters inked a seven-year deal to host the event in India.
The involvement of the Uttar Pradesh government, transitioning from a sponsor to a co-promoter, underscores the growing support and optimism surrounding the event’s long-term sustainability. The 2023 MotoGP round, which saw Marco Bezzecchi emerge victorious, marked a significant milestone for Indian motorsport, hailed as the country’s largest motorsport event since the last Formula 1 race in 2013. The resurgence of top-tier racing in India promises an exciting future for motorsport enthusiasts nationwide.
