The highly anticipated debut of MotoGP in India is set to take place over the upcoming weekend in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Although motorsports may not have the same level of popularity in India as it does in other parts of the world, the introduction of MotoGP in the country is a testament to the growing interest in the sport.
MotoGP is considered the pinnacle of two-wheeled motor racing and will enter its 13th round in India. The current standings are led by Italian racer Francesco Bagnaia of Ducati, followed by Jorge Martin of Spain, also racing for Ducati. The third position is held by Italian Marco Bezzecchi, also on a Ducati. However, with the uncharted territory of India, there is still a possibility for major upsets.
The history of MotoGP dates back to its inaugural edition in 1949. Races were initially held across five categories, featuring different engine capacities. Over time, two-stroke engines became prominent, challenging the dominance of four-stroke engines.
MotoGP has seen several legendary champions throughout its history. Giacomo Agostini, an Italian racer, is one of the most successful with 15 World Championship titles and 122 Grand Prix wins. Valentino Rossi, another Italian, has nine World titles to his name, seven of which are in the premier class. Spain’s Marc Marquez is also a standout competitor with eight World Championship titles, six of them in MotoGP.
While Marquez garners attention, the ongoing battle for the top spot in the standings is between Bagnaia and Martin. Martin’s recent victory in Italy gives him momentum, but Bezzecchi, South Africa’s Brad Binder, Australia’s Jack Miller, and Japan’s Takaaki Nakagami are all strong contenders.
The MotoGP India event will take place over three days, from September 22 to September 24, at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida. This venue, which previously hosted Formula One races, will feature a main MotoGP race encompassing 24 laps with a total distance of 118.97 kilometers. The track consists of eight right corners, five left corners, and boasts a 1,006-meter-long straight.
For those interested in watching the race, tickets can be purchased through BookMyShow. Sports 18 holds the broadcasting rights, while Jio Cinema has the livestreaming rights for the event.
MotoGP India marks an exciting milestone for motorsports in the country, highlighting the growing interest and popularity of the sport among Indian audiences.
Sources:
– HT Auto Desk
– Reuters