UP agreement signals renewed push to bring MotoGP back to India
Fresh efforts are underway to bring top-tier motorcycle racing back to India after the Government of Uttar Pradesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding with AVW Global, a motorsport advisory and events company founded by former MotoGP rider Karel Abraham. The agreement focuses on facilitating international motorcycle championships at the Buddh International Circuit near Greater Noida.
Under the pact, the parties will explore hosting both MotoGP and the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) at the venue. Officials have also indicated that the initiative goes beyond a single event, with the state aiming to build a longer-term motorsport ecosystem around the circuit while encouraging youth participation and talent development in two-wheeler racing.
AVW Global had reportedly evaluated multiple possible venues for a MotoGP return, but the Buddh International Circuit remains the preferred choice due to its existing homologation standards and previous experience hosting global championships. The track staged India’s first MotoGP race in 2023, and despite operational challenges that year, riders and teams generally rated the circuit infrastructure positively.
Alongside MotoGP, the Asia Road Racing Championship could potentially reach India sooner. Series representatives have suggested that a round at the Buddh circuit could be organised as early as the 2026 season window if planning progresses on schedule. The championship already has links to Indian manufacturers and development series, which could strengthen local engagement.
India’s importance to global motorcycle racing continues to grow given its status as the world’s largest two-wheeler market and expanding motorsport audience. Stakeholders involved in the new initiative have emphasised that attracting international racing should also help create pathways for Indian riders through training programmes, feeder championships and grassroots initiatives.
The proposed revival comes after a turbulent few years for MotoGP in India. Following the inaugural race, subsequent editions faced postponements, promoter changes and scheduling uncertainties, eventually resulting in India’s absence from later calendars. The new state-backed framework is therefore being viewed as an attempt to stabilise organisational and financial structures before committing to future races.
No confirmed race date has yet been announced, and discussions with championship rights holders are expected to continue. However, the signing of the MoU represents one of the clearest institutional steps so far towards restoring international motorcycle racing at the Buddh International Circuit.
