India’s prospects of returning to the MotoGP calendar in 2025 are looking increasingly bleak, with the latest information suggesting that the Indian Grand Prix may not make a comeback next year. The race at the Buddh International Circuit near Delhi made its debut in the championship in 2023 but was notably absent from this year’s schedule, despite being initially included.
The 2024 Indian Grand Prix was called off due to weather conditions, with both Dorna, the championship’s promoter, and Fairstreet Sports, the local promoter, announcing the cancellation. While the statement did not explicitly state a suspension, it indicated a postponement to 2025.
A statement released by MotoGP in May revealed, “The FIM, IRTA, and Dorna Sports announce that the Indian Grand Prix will not take place in 2024, with MotoGP postponing its return to the country to early 2025 due to operational considerations.”
The decision to delay the event to 2025 was made following advice from the Government of Uttar Pradesh, the state where the Buddh International Circuit is located. The sport is set to return to the circuit in March 2025, with optimal weather conditions expected for both spectators and riders.
In a significant development, Dorna announced the signing of a new contract with Invest UP, an investment agency of the Uttar Pradesh government, which will run until 2027. This deal sidelines Fairstreet, the previous promoter, marking a shift in the event’s organizational structure.
Despite the new agreement in place, it appears that the Indian Grand Prix may still face challenges in 2025. Local authorities have reportedly struggled to secure the necessary financial support to host the event, casting doubt on its inclusion in the upcoming season.
As the year progresses and the need to finalize the calendar becomes more urgent, reaching a consensus for the Indian Grand Prix seems increasingly unlikely. With confirmed dates already set, the 2025 season is scheduled to kick off in Thailand in early March, followed by rounds in Argentina and Austin to conclude the American leg of the tour.
The championship will then move to Europe from April to September, with races in Jerez and San Marino among the highlights. An Asian tour is also on the cards, featuring double-headers before the season returns to Europe. The final races of the season are set to take place in Valencia and Portimao in mid-November.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the Indian Grand Prix, MotoGP fans can look forward to an action-packed season ahead, with races spanning across continents and showcasing the world’s best motorcycle racing talent.
Challenges for the Indian Grand Prix
The road to bringing back the Indian Grand Prix to the MotoGP calendar has been fraught with challenges. While the Buddh International Circuit provided a world-class venue for the event, logistical and financial hurdles have hindered its return.
The cancellation of the 2024 race due to weather conditions was a setback for both fans and organizers, leading to a postponement to 2025. However, the lack of financial support from local authorities has cast doubt on the event’s future, raising concerns about its viability in the upcoming season.
Impact on MotoGP Calendar
The absence of the Indian Grand Prix from the 2025 MotoGP calendar could have wider implications for the championship’s schedule. With the event potentially being omitted, organizers will need to adjust the calendar to accommodate the change and ensure a seamless season for teams and fans alike.
The shift in dates and venues may present logistical challenges for MotoGP, as they strive to deliver a competitive and engaging season for viewers around the world. The decision to exclude the Indian Grand Prix will undoubtedly shape the overall structure of the 2025 calendar and impact the racing landscape.
Looking Ahead
As MotoGP prepares for the 2025 season, uncertainties surrounding the Indian Grand Prix continue to loom large. While the championship remains committed to returning to India, the challenges facing the event are significant and may impact its inclusion in the upcoming season.
Despite these hurdles, MotoGP fans can anticipate an exciting year of racing ahead, with thrilling competitions across diverse locations and a lineup of talented riders vying for the championship title. As the sport navigates through the complexities of organizing a global racing series, the future of the Indian Grand Prix remains a topic of keen interest and speculation within the MotoGP community.
