MotoGP’s plan for a race at former F1 Indian venue

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MotoGP have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that seeks to host a race at the Buddh International Circuit, in Noida. According to Dorna Sports, which promotes MotoGP, India has a popular fan base for both the two-wheeler industry in general, and motorsports in particular.

The country is also a lucrative venue as it will bring the sport of MotoGP closer and hence more accessible to loyal followers who have been following it for years. However, this is not Dorna Sport’s first attempt at hosting a motorsport race in India and plans to hold a World Superbike Race in 2013, had remained unsuccessful.

This was due to tax related issues on account of F1 and motorsport being then categorized as entertainment, not sport, which attracted higher taxation. These issues have now been seemingly solved, partially aided by the entry of Indian manufacturers in Formula E, including Mahindra and Tata.

While the signed MoU envisions a race as early as 2024, MotoGP’s plans to include new races to its calendar have proven unsuccessful several times, including planned races in Brazil, Wales, Finland, and Hungary.

If the agreement at the Buddh International Circuit is executed successfully, the race is expected to be held in July, and substitute the current Finnish Grand Prix. However, a delay confirming this is expected till negotiations regarding a new race in Kazakhstan are concluded.