-BharatGP to take place in 2025
-Likely be held in early March
-Unfavourable weather in September was a big concern
In what comes as a big blow to fans of MotoGP in India, the event organisers Dorna, Fairstreet Sports and the Government of Uttar Pradesh have come to a conclusion that the 2024 Indian Grand Prix will be dropped from this year’s calendar.
The organisers stated that weather conditions in September are unfavourable to go racing. At the inaugural Indian Grand Prix in September 2023, high heat and humidity made it difficult for both riders and track marshals to conduct the race. Ambient temperatures were hovering around the 40-degree mark and such high temperatures aren’t conducive to go racing. Considering the issues that were faced, the organisers decided to cancel the event this year. One cannot forget the sight of Prima Pramac Racing’s Jorge Martin collapsing in the pits after the race due to heat exhaustion.
The organisers were thinking of the option to postpone the race to November 2024 but adding a fourth race in the same month would be a logistical nightmare for the teams, not to mention the physical toll it’ll take on them.
The silver lining, however, is that the Indian Grand Prix will be held in 2025, possibly around early March. The weather is relatively pleasant in that month.
While Dorna hasn’t confirmed the dates in March, word is that the 2025 MotoGP season might begin in India. Qatar usually hosts the season opener, however, with the holy month of Ramadan falling in March 2025, India may hold the first round of the season. There is also a possibility of India hosting an official pre-season test at the BIC, a few weeks before the start of the 2025 MotoGP World Championship.
The Buddh International Circuit was loved by both riders and spectators for its fast, flowing yet technical layout. Riders like Jorge Martin were vocal about their love for the racetrack. The fans too loved the racing, with some close battles that added to the excitement. Marco Bezzecchi on the VR46 Ducati won the main race quite comfortably, much to the delight of his team and the Indian MotoGP fans.
While we are gutted about the news of the race being cancelled, here’s hoping that come 2025 everything is smooth sailing and more people get to witness the mega motorcycle racing spectacle that is MotoGP.
