The State Transformation Commission of the Government of Uttar Pradesh has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AVW Global, a motorsport consultancy founded by former MotoGP rider Karel Abraham, to facilitate the return of premier international championships to the state.
The agreement aims to establish a structured, professional ecosystem for world-class motorcycle racing at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC), with efforts focused on hosting both MotoGP and the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC).
Renewed push to bring MotoGP back to India
India’s tryst with MotoGP has been turbulent. After hosting its inaugural race in 2023, the event faced operational challenges and scheduling disruptions in subsequent years. Despite earlier commitments for a comeback, India did not feature on the 2026 MotoGP calendar.
The new MoU signals a fresh and more coordinated attempt to bring the championship back, this time under a government-backed framework designed to ensure long-term sustainability.
Manoj Kumar Singh, CEO of the State Transformation Commission, said the state is committed to reintroducing motorcycle racing in a structured and professional manner. He emphasised that Uttar Pradesh intends to maximise the potential of the Buddh International Circuit and develop a broader ecosystem around it, including youth engagement and industry participation.
ARRC could arrive as early as 2026
While MotoGP’s return will require further commercial negotiations and calendar alignment, the Asia Road Racing Championship could reach Indian shores much sooner.
Ron Hogg, Promotions Director of Two Wheels Motor Racing, the rights holder for ARRC confirmed that the series is eyeing a possible round at BIC as early as July–August 2026. He described India as a strategically important market with a deeply passionate fan base.
ARRC already has strong relevance in India, with participation from major manufacturers and support championships such as TVS’ one-make racing platform contributing to regional talent development.
Why Buddh International Circuit remains central
The Buddh International Circuit continues to be the focal point of the revival strategy. The 5.14km track has previously hosted MotoGP and Formula 1. Riders had praised its layout and infrastructure during its debut MotoGP outing.
Abraham noted that BIC meets the quality benchmarks required for a world championship and remains the preferred venue among the options explored for MotoGP’s return to India.
His involvement brings both sporting credibility and operational expertise. Apart from competing at the highest level, Abraham previously owned and operated the Brno Circuit, giving him hands-on experience in circuit management and international event execution.
The partnership goes beyond simply hosting a race weekend. A key pillar of the strategy is long-term ecosystem development, from nurturing Indian racing talent to attracting global sponsors and investors.
India is the world’s largest two-wheeler market, making it commercially significant for championship owners and manufacturers alike. With MotoGP now under the ownership of Liberty Media, global expansion into high-growth markets is expected to be a strategic priority.
Abraham highlighted that future plans would focus not only on staging international events but also on building grassroots pathways that could one day see Indian riders compete at the highest level.
Economic and strategic implications
Beyond sport, large-scale events such as MotoGP and ARRC have substantial economic impact. They can drive tourism, infrastructure upgrades, hospitality growth, employment generation, and broader investment in motorsport-related industries.
The road ahead
No definitive timeline has yet been announced for MotoGP’s return. However, officials indicated that negotiations are expected to begin this year, with the objective of placing India back on the championship calendar at the earliest feasible opportunity.
If successful, the collaboration between Uttar Pradesh and AVW Global could mark a new chapter for motorcycle racing in India, one built on structured planning, global expertise, and long-term sustainability rather than short-term ambition.
