The 2024 India MotoGP race, originally scheduled for September, has been delayed. Dorna Sports, the governing body of MotoGP, has officially announced that the Indian Grand Prix will not take place this year. Instead, it has been rescheduled to March 2025.
Background and Decision-Making Process
Earlier this month, reports surfaced suggesting that the Indian GP might be canceled due to unpaid dues. However, Fairstreet Sports, the local promoter of the race, denied this claim, asserting that the event would proceed as planned. Following discussions involving all stakeholders—Dorna, Fairstreet Sports, and the Uttar Pradesh government—a mutual decision was reached to postpone the race. The primary reason behind this change was weather concerns.
Operational Considerations and Weather Factors
An official statement from Dorna clarified the situation: “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. Following advice from the Government of Uttar Pradesh, as the state continues its long-term commitment to MotoGP, the sport will return to the Buddh International Circuit in March 2025.”
The decision to reschedule the race was influenced by weather conditions. In the past, the Indian GP faced extreme challenges due to high temperatures and humidity levels. With temperatures ranging from 32-35 degrees Celsius and humidity exceeding 80 percent, the 2023 Indian GP became one of the most grueling races on the calendar. Rider Jorge Martin even suffered from dehydration during the event.
Looking Ahead: 2025 Season Opener?
While the postponed Kazakhstan GP will now occupy the September 20-22 slot in 2024, India could potentially serve as the opening round of the 2025 MotoGP season. The traditional season-opening race in Qatar is expected to be pushed back due to Ramadan, making way for the Indian GP in March.
The Buddh International Circuit, which hosted the inaugural Indian GP last year, will once again welcome MotoGP enthusiasts in 2025. Organizers hope that the weather conditions during this time will be optimal for both spectators and riders.
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