Globally, motorcycle racing is divided into off-road racing (both on circuits and open tracks), road racing, trials, sprint racing, and track racing. In India, motorcycling, adventure, performance and track racing are gaining traction, but a broader product portfolio is needed beyond the imports that dominate the current market. The high cost of bikes, parts, accessories, tracks, trainers and fitness opportunities remains a major barrier for many enthusiasts.
You could say that motorsports in India is on the cusp of a revolution. Recent years have seen a significant rise in interest and participation in various forms of motorsports, from the Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) to the recent addition of MotoGP. The core audience for motorsports in India is the predominantly male 18-45 age group, but we have seen a growing enthusiasm among women, both in terms of participation and consumption, which is a clear indicator that India is ready to embrace motorsports. as a main avenue for sports and entertainment.
The advent of the Internet has significantly changed the mindset of cyclists and enthusiasts, creating a more informed and passionate community based on their likes and dislikes. India plays a prominent role when it comes to social media platforms, particularly Facebook, which is home to some of the largest motorsports communities in the world. This digital revolution has connected drivers and fans, fostering a vibrant motorsport culture."The Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) has played a pivotal role in promoting and supporting motorsports in the country over the last few years," Eshan Lokhande, co-founder of ISRL, told IANS.
“The FMSCI has been instrumental in bringing high-profile international events like MotoGP and Formula E to India and ensuring their smooth functioning by overseeing logistics, safety and regulatory compliance. The federation provides resources such as trained marshals and medical support, which are essential to the successful execution of any motorsports event.
“In addition, FMSCI has worked closely with local promoters and international bodies such as the FIA and FIM to foster an enabling environment for motorsports. “His continued advocacy for better policies and infrastructure has contributed significantly to the growth and recognition of motorsports in India, positioning our country as a flourishing hub for the sport on the global stage,” he added. However, recent successes, particularly with the Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL), they have been reassuring. The inaugural season of the ISRL saw a total attendance of nearly 30,000 enthusiasts cheering on their teams and sports celebrities. It opens a new avenue for brands and partners to cater to the niche audience that directly impacts the financial growth of the league, thereby laying a solid foundation for the expansion of the sport in India. Full stadiums in Pune, Ahmedabad and Bangalore have demonstrated the viability and acceptance of motorsports in India, laying the foundation for future growth.
“While ISRL has attracted significant attention, it is essential to highlight the contributions of other motorsports events in India. The INRC has been instrumental in promoting rallying as a sport, consistently attracting top talent and fostering a strong community of rally enthusiasts. Similarly, the Indian Racing League (IRL) has been instrumental in nurturing young driving talent, providing a platform for drivers to compete in high-risk environments and gain international exposure. Provide a platform for drivers to compete in high-risk environments and gain international exposure,” he concluded.
The entry of MotoGP in India marks a huge step forward. This prestigious event not only increases the popularity of the sport but also contributes to the development of world-class racing infrastructure, further solidifying India's position on the global motorsports map. Despite the large population and growing interest, India only has a few internationally recognized motorsport stars such as CS Santosh, Gaurav Gill, Harith Noah, Narain Karthikeyan and Jehan Darukhanwala. For a country with 1.4 billion aspirations, this is a stark contrast. To truly elevate motorsports in India, we must focus on several key areas: developing world-class tracks and facilities to host both local and international events, encouraging corporate investment in motorsports teams and events, creating opportunities for a broader participation through an open door policy. , ensuring greater government support to provide the necessary resources and recognition, and implementing grassroots programs to nurture young talent from an early age. These steps are essential to transform India into a major hub for motorsports and foster a prosperous and competitive environment for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
A thriving motorsport industry in India will put the country on the global sporting map, attracting international tourism and investment. It will also open up new career opportunities in sports, engineering and management, contributing to overall economic development. Motorsports can inspire millions of young Indians, fostering a spirit of competition, innovation and excellence. The recognition of motorsports as a viable professional career can lead to the emergence of new champions who will carry the Indian flag on international podiums.
You could say that motorsports in India is on the cusp of a revolution. Recent years have seen a significant rise in interest and participation in various forms of motorsports, from the Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) to the recent addition of MotoGP. The core audience for motorsports in India is the predominantly male 18-45 age group, but we have seen a growing enthusiasm among women, both in terms of participation and consumption, which is a clear indicator that India is ready to embrace motorsports. as a main avenue for sports and entertainment.
The advent of the Internet has significantly changed the mindset of cyclists and enthusiasts, creating a more informed and passionate community based on their likes and dislikes. India plays a prominent role when it comes to social media platforms, particularly Facebook, which is home to some of the largest motorsports communities in the world. This digital revolution has connected drivers and fans, fostering a vibrant motorsport culture."The Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) has played a pivotal role in promoting and supporting motorsports in the country over the last few years," Eshan Lokhande, co-founder of ISRL, told IANS.
“The FMSCI has been instrumental in bringing high-profile international events like MotoGP and Formula E to India and ensuring their smooth functioning by overseeing logistics, safety and regulatory compliance. The federation provides resources such as trained marshals and medical support, which are essential to the successful execution of any motorsports event.
“In addition, FMSCI has worked closely with local promoters and international bodies such as the FIA and FIM to foster an enabling environment for motorsports. “His continued advocacy for better policies and infrastructure has contributed significantly to the growth and recognition of motorsports in India, positioning our country as a flourishing hub for the sport on the global stage,” he added. However, recent successes, particularly with the Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL), they have been reassuring. The inaugural season of the ISRL saw a total attendance of nearly 30,000 enthusiasts cheering on their teams and sports celebrities. It opens a new avenue for brands and partners to cater to the niche audience that directly impacts the financial growth of the league, thereby laying a solid foundation for the expansion of the sport in India. Full stadiums in Pune, Ahmedabad and Bangalore have demonstrated the viability and acceptance of motorsports in India, laying the foundation for future growth.
“While ISRL has attracted significant attention, it is essential to highlight the contributions of other motorsports events in India. The INRC has been instrumental in promoting rallying as a sport, consistently attracting top talent and fostering a strong community of rally enthusiasts. Similarly, the Indian Racing League (IRL) has been instrumental in nurturing young driving talent, providing a platform for drivers to compete in high-risk environments and gain international exposure. Provide a platform for drivers to compete in high-risk environments and gain international exposure,” he concluded.
The entry of MotoGP in India marks a huge step forward. This prestigious event not only increases the popularity of the sport but also contributes to the development of world-class racing infrastructure, further solidifying India's position on the global motorsports map. Despite the large population and growing interest, India only has a few internationally recognized motorsport stars such as CS Santosh, Gaurav Gill, Harith Noah, Narain Karthikeyan and Jehan Darukhanwala. For a country with 1.4 billion aspirations, this is a stark contrast. To truly elevate motorsports in India, we must focus on several key areas: developing world-class tracks and facilities to host both local and international events, encouraging corporate investment in motorsports teams and events, creating opportunities for a broader participation through an open door policy. , ensuring greater government support to provide the necessary resources and recognition, and implementing grassroots programs to nurture young talent from an early age. These steps are essential to transform India into a major hub for motorsports and foster a prosperous and competitive environment for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
A thriving motorsport industry in India will put the country on the global sporting map, attracting international tourism and investment. It will also open up new career opportunities in sports, engineering and management, contributing to overall economic development. Motorsports can inspire millions of young Indians, fostering a spirit of competition, innovation and excellence. The recognition of motorsports as a viable professional career can lead to the emergence of new champions who will carry the Indian flag on international podiums.
