The Indian Superbike League (ISBL) has officially been launched, marking a significant milestone in Indian motorsports. The league, sanctioned by the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), aims to revolutionize professional motorcycle racing in the country. With a vision to “Get India Racing,” ISBL is set to provide a structured platform for riders while creating a high-energy sporting spectacle.
Indian Superbike League to Kickstart with Three-Round Inaugural Season
The organizers plan to hold the inaugural season at the end of this year, subject to operational readiness. The league will feature three rounds hosted in Chennai, Bengaluru, and Pune-Mumbai. Further details on the exact race dates and schedules will be announced soon.
One of the key investors in the league is the Dhuleva Group, led by Mr. Avi Jain. Additionally, premium motorcycle manufacturer Ducati has been confirmed as one of the motorcycle suppliers for ISBL.
Indian Superbike League Brings Together Industry Experts
The launch event saw the presence of major figures in the motorsport industry, including:
- Mr. Arindam Ghosh, President of FMSCI
- Mr. Vicky Chandhok, Former President of FMSCI and Council Member
- Mr. M.R. Dastur, Chairman of FMSCI 2-Wheeler Racing Commission
- Mr. Bipul Chandra, MD of Ducati India
- Mr. Sirish Vissa, Director of ISBL
Their collective expertise and support will guide ISBL in its mission to elevate motorcycle racing in India.
Franchise-Based Model with Multiple Racing Categories
The ISBL will follow a franchise-based model, allowing teams to compete across multiple categories, including:
- Pro Categories (Two Classes)
- Amateur Class
- Female Riders Class
- Rookie Class
This format ensures that racers from different experience levels and backgrounds get an opportunity to compete professionally.
Vision to Professionalize Indian Motorcycle Racing
Mr. Pranav Bakre, Director of ISBL, emphasized that the league aims to create a sustainable ecosystem for riders, technicians, and support staff. “The Indian Superbike League aims to transform Indian motorsports. Our goal is to provide a strong platform for skill development, while also producing an internationally recognized racing series,” he stated.
Mr. Sirish Vissa, Director of ISBL, highlighted the need to nurture talent beyond metro cities. “The tier-II and tier-III cities have shown growing interest in motorcycle racing. ISBL aims to provide a structured pathway for aspiring racers, allowing them to transition into international competitions like MotoGP and World Superbike,” he said.
Indian Superbike League Gains Strong Interest from Riders
The ISBL has already attracted over 400 rider registrations, signaling strong enthusiasm for high-caliber motorcycle racing in India. The league intends to fill a long-standing gap in the country’s motorsport scene by providing riders with a structured career pathway, similar to the four-wheeler racing ecosystem.
Ducati Joins as Motorcycle Supplier
Ducati India has joined ISBL as an official motorcycle supplier. Mr. Bipul Chandra, Managing Director of Ducati India, expressed the brand’s excitement about supporting this initiative. “ISBL will focus on performance, safety, and rider development, aligning with Ducati’s philosophy. Moreover, we look forward to contributing to the growth of motorcycle racing in India,” he said.
Aiming for Global Recognition
In the long term, ISBL aspires to stand alongside elite international superbike championships such as the British Superbike and Japanese Superbike series. The league aims to develop home-grown talent, fostering an environment where Indian riders, technicians, and support teams can build sustainable careers in motorsports.
Beyond competitive racing, ISBL also intends to promote a culture of safe riding by shifting the focus from street racing to professional track-based competition. By improving technical standards and safety awareness, the league hopes to instill greater discipline among motorcyclists in India.
Conclusion
The Indian Superbike League represents a bold step toward professionalizing motorcycle racing in India. Further, ISBL shall be a game-changer for Indian motorsports by offering a structured platform for riders, attracting investment, and fostering talent. As the league gears up for its inaugural season, it promises to bring speed, skill, and spectacle to the Indian racing scene.
