Dorna Sports’ Carlos Ezpeleta has confirmed that the MotoGP calendar for 2025 will not feature the Indian Grand Prix, with plans now in place to delay the event’s return until 2026. Despite this setback, Ezpeleta emphasized that India remains a crucial market for MotoGP and the motorcycle industry as a whole. The decision to defer the Indian GP was made due to challenges in finding a promoter and completing necessary upgrades to the Buddh International Circuit within the required timeframe.
The 2025 MotoGP calendar, which was recently unveiled, will consist of a record-breaking 22 rounds. Some of the notable highlights include the return to Brno, the addition of a new event in Hungary, and a change in the opening round location to Thailand. While India’s absence is notable, Ezpeleta reassured fans that efforts are being made to ensure the country’s inclusion in future seasons.
Regarding the decision to postpone the Indian Grand Prix, Ezpeleta stated, “We have an agreement with the region of Uttar Pradesh, but unfortunately, with the deadlines to publish the calendar, it wasn’t possible for us to meet all of those deadlines in terms of selecting a promoter and getting the upgrades to the circuit done.” He further added, “We continue to think there is tremendous potential but we have agreed the best way forward is to postpone it.”
The 2025 MotoGP calendar marks the third consecutive year that Dorna has announced plans for a 22-round global schedule. While past seasons have seen some event cancellations, Ezpeleta expressed confidence that there will be no schedule shake-ups in the upcoming season. Despite a few events being listed as subject to confirmation, including Brno, preparations are underway to ensure a smooth and successful racing season.
### Brno’s Return and Upgrades
One of the key highlights of the 2025 MotoGP calendar is the return of Brno, which is set to host its first MotoGP event since 2020. However, the circuit must undergo necessary resurfacing and upgrades before the scheduled July date. Ezpeleta confirmed, “It hasn’t been resurfaced yet, it is part of our conditions to return. There are other things they have to improve but they have all been agreed, so we are all looking forward to it.” The government of Czechia and MotoGP are eager to welcome back the traditional event that has attracted fans for decades.
### Balaton Park’s Debut
The 2025 MotoGP season will also feature an all-new circuit in Hungary, with the inaugural visit to Balaton Park marking the culmination of a long-standing agreement between Dorna and the Hungarian government. The venue, located on the shores of Lake Balaton, was initially planned for construction in 2009 but faced delays until now. While significant changes are needed to prepare the circuit for MotoGP, Ezpeleta remains optimistic about the venue’s potential. He stated, “The circuit is quite recently built and it will need to go through some significant changes for MotoGP but we should soon be ready to show fans what it will be like.”
### Other Schedule Updates
In addition to Brno and Balaton Park, the 2025 MotoGP calendar will see the return of Argentina after political issues led to the cancellation of this year’s round at Termas de Rio Hondo. Portimao, which shifts to a penultimate round slot, is also expected to meet upgrade criteria to secure its place in future seasons. However, there is no mention of a planned visit to the Sokol International Racetrack in Kazakhstan, as previous attempts to host the inaugural Kazakhstan Grand Prix in 2023 and 2024 fell through.
Overall, while the absence of the Indian Grand Prix may disappoint fans, the 2025 MotoGP calendar promises an exciting lineup of events, with new venues and returning favorites set to provide thrilling racing action for fans around the world. Despite challenges and delays, the sport remains committed to expanding its global reach and delivering top-tier competition for all enthusiasts.
