Amit Saraswat 
While financial trouble was suggested as the reason behind the cancellation of 2024 Bharat GP, the PTI report reveals favourable weather conditions as the key factor behind the decision. Organisers acknowledged the challenges posed by September’s heat, similar to those encountered during the well-received inaugural race in 2023. “We are looking at the first or second week of March,” said Pushkar Nath Srivastava, CEO of Fairstreet Sports, co-promoter of the event. “All stakeholders agreed that the September weather is not conducive for the race and can be difficult on the riders and marshals.”
Rumours swirled that outstanding dues to Dorna might have influenced the postponement. However, organisers swiftly dispelled these speculations. Srivastava clarified, “All payments were being made in a timely manner, and any remaining dues will be settled by next month. The weather conditions were the primary reason for shifting the race to March 2025.”
The 2023 BharatGP, a resounding success, witnessed Marco Bezzecchi taking the chequered flag. The electrifying atmosphere at the Buddh International Circuit drew over 50,000 fans, though attendance only filled half the venue’s capacity. Organisers are optimistic about attracting a larger audience in March with more pleasant weather as the motorsport continues to grow among local fans.
This postponement does not diminish the promising future of MotoGP in India. A testament to this is the seven-year agreement signed between Dorna and local promoters before the 2023 race. Furthermore, the Uttar Pradesh government’s elevated role from sponsor to co-promoter signifies their strong commitment to the event’s long-term success. While fans will have to wait a bit longer for the 2025 race, the BharatGP looks set to continue its journey as a premier motorsport event in India. With that, we also expect Formula 1 to return to India, after it was called off in 2014.
