India successfully hosted the first-ever Indian MotoGP, named MotoGP Bharat, which took place at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida from September 22 to September 24. Italian Grand Prix motorcycle racer Marco Bezzecchi emerged as the winner from the pole position at the Buddh International Circuit, with Spain’s Jorge Martin coming in second and France’s Fabio Quartararo as the third rider to cross the finish line. The checkered flag and winning trophy were presented by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
The IndianOil Grand Prix of India weekend consisted of the main race and included races from Moto2 and Moto3. A total of 41 teams participated in the MotoGP Bharat event. According to reports, more than 1 Lakh fans attended the event, and it was also live-streamed on the Jio cinema application. The MotoGP Bharat was a three-day event and marked one of the biggest racing events held in India since hosting three Formula 1 races between 2011 and 2013, which were discontinued due to tax and diplomatic decisions.
India was added to the MotoGP calendar earlier this year and hosted the 14th round out of 21 races in the extravagant event, making India the 31st country and 75th venue to be part of the MotoGP circuit.
Top officials from MotoGP’s commercial rights holder, Dorna, had visited India last year and signed a seven-year MoU with Indian race promoters Fairstreet Sports (FSS).
Hosting a major event like MotoGP requires extensive preparation and funding to ensure its smooth operation. Approximately 5000 people, including riders and staff, work during a MotoGP race. During the last visit, Dorna Managing Director Carlos Ezpeleta mentioned that a MotoGP weekend generates around 100 million euros.
Indian organizers Fairstreet Sports (FSS) did an exceptional job in successfully hosting the event in 2023. Earlier this year, there were reports that the MotoGP track modifications were behind schedule. However, Pushkar Nath Srivastava, COO of Fairstreet Sports, assured that the design modifications, suggested by a UK-based company and approved by both FIA and FIM, would be completed within the deadline. He further added that the Buddh International Circuit is the only track after Silverstone to have both FIA and FIM licenses. It is indeed a promising sign to see MotoGP thriving in India.
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