Indian MotoGP 2024 Cancelled, 2025 Rescheduled for March – Kazakhstan Added
The 2024 MotoGP calendar has seen a major change as the Indian Grand Prix, originally scheduled to be held at the Buddh International Circuit, has been cancelled. According to MotoGP organiser Dorna Sports, the decision was justified by operational considerations. Instead, the first Kazakhstan Grand Prix has been added to the calendar and will be held in September 2024.
Cancellation of the Indian Grand Prix
The Indian Grand Prix, which made its debut on the MotoGP calendar in 2023, took place under extreme weather conditions at the Buddh International Circuit in Noida, in sweltering heat and humidity. These conditions reduced the race distance, as requested by the competitors. Despite the enthusiasm and success of the event, the organisers have decided to cancel the 2024 edition to resolve logistical issues and ensure a better experience in the future.
MotoGP’s official statement said: “The FIM, IRTA, and Dorna Sports have announced that the Indian Grand Prix will not take place in 2024, and MotoGP has postponed its return to the country until early 2025 due to operational considerations.” The decision was taken in consultation with the Uttar Pradesh government, which remains committed to MotoGP in the long term. The event has now been rescheduled for March 2025, when weather conditions are expected to be more favourable for spectators and competitors.
Entry into the Kazakhstan Grand Prix
In a strategic move, the Kazakhstan Grand Prix was added to the 2024 MotoGP calendar. Originally scheduled for June, the event was postponed due to severe weather conditions and flooding across Central Asia, which forced the evacuation of around 117,000 people. The event will now take place between September 20 and 22, marking the debut of Kazakhstan’s MotoGP and the Asian leg of the 2024 calendar.
“Instead of the Indian GP, the first Grand Prix of Kazakhstan will take place between September 20 and 22, as the first race of the Asian leg of the 2024 MotoGP calendar,” MotoGP said in a statement.
Impact and expectations
The cancellation of the Indian Grand Prix presents a challenge but also an opportunity to improve the organisation and experience for a return in 2025. The new March date will allow for milder weather, which will benefit both competitors and spectators. The inclusion of the Kazakhstan Grand Prix highlights MotoGP’s continued expansion into new markets, bringing new dynamics and new fans to the sport.
Kazakhstan promises to be an exciting and competitive track, reflecting the diversity and global reach of MotoGP. Despite the adjustments, the 2024 season promises to be action-packed and fiercely competitive.
In short, as MotoGP adapts to change and continues to innovate, fans can look forward to an exciting and varied calendar in 2024, with the spectacular return of the Indian Grand Prix in 2025.
