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MotoGP Could Return To India As UP Govt Signs New Agreement
MotoGP races were last held in India during the 2023 season, and since then, the pinnacle of motorcycle racing has not returned to the Indian subcontinent. However, a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the Uttar Pradesh government and AVW Global indicates a strong possibility of the sport returning to the Buddh International Circuit.
International motorsport had nearly disappeared from India after 2013, when the last Formula 1 race was held in the country. It made a comeback in 2023 with the Bharat GP MotoGP race, but after just one season, the event was discontinued due to operational and logistical challenges.
UP Government Signs MOU For MotoGP Return to India
Now, the Uttar Pradesh government has signed an MoU with AVW Global, a motorsport events and advisory company, which suggests a renewed push to bring international motorcycle racing back to India by 2027. Along with MotoGP, there is also a possibility that the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) will return to the Buddh International Circuit.
With this agreement, the state government aims to create a stronger ecosystem for motorsports and boost the sport's popularity. Interest in motorsport has grown significantly in recent years, with global exposure, the rise of digital streaming platforms, and increased fan engagement across social media and online communities.
A MotoGP return to India could attract large crowds, new sponsors, and investment opportunities. Even during the 2023 event, fan turnout was strong, with many enthusiasts expressing interest in seeing the championship return.
Such events can also contribute to tourism growth, new employment opportunities, and infrastructure development, helping establish a stronger motorsport base in the country. While the ARRC could potentially return sooner, a MotoGP comeback may take a few years, depending on the decision by FIM.
The Jaypee Group developed the Buddh International Circuit specifically to host Formula 1 races in India. However, after three seasons, the races were discontinued due to taxation and logistical challenges.
Now, there is a strong possibility of MotoGP races, particularly considering that the country is the world's largest two-wheeler market, making it a strategically important destination for global motorcycle racing. A Formula 1 comeback currently appears unlikely due to the high number of races in the F1 race calendar. But like Europe, FIA could bring the race to India on a rotational basis, which has a strong possibility.
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