The much-awaited Indian Superbike League (ISBL) was officially launched on March 17 in Mumbai. This league is a big step for Indian motorsports and aims to bring professional motorcycle racing to Indian fans. It is approved by the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) and will help develop motorcycle racing in the country under the vision of “Get India Racing”.
First Season Starts at Year-End
The first season of ISBL is expected to start at the end of this year, with three rounds planned in:
- Chennai
- Bengaluru
- Pune-Mumbai
More details about the race schedule and format will be announced soon.
Who is Supporting the League?
One of the main investors in ISBL is the Dhuleva Group, led by Mr. Avi Jain. Ducati, a well-known motorcycle brand, will be one of the suppliers providing bikes for the league.
The launch event in Mumbai was attended by many famous figures in motorsports, including:
- Mr. Arindam Ghosh (President of FMSCI)
- Mr. Vicky Chandhok (Council Member and Former President of FMSCI)
- Mr. M.R. Dastur (Chairman of FMSCI 2-Wheeler Racing Commission)
- Mr. Bipul Chandra (Managing Director of Ducati India)
- Mr. Sirish Vissa (Director of ISBL)
Different Racing Categories
The ISBL will be a franchise-based league with multiple racing categories. Each team will compete in all the following classes:
- Pro Categories (Two Classes)
- Amateur Class
- Female Riders Class
- Rookie Class
Aims of ISBL
ISBL is designed to promote local talent and provide a structured platform for Indian riders to grow. Speaking at the launch, Mr. Pranav Bakre, Director of ISBL, said:
“The ISBL will help riders, technicians, and support staff build lasting careers in motorsports. It will also create exciting racing events and raise the status of Indian motorsports on the world stage.”
Mr. Sirish Vissa, another Director of ISBL, added:
“There is a growing interest in motorcycle racing, especially in smaller cities. ISBL will give racers and other professionals a sustainable career path in the sport.”
FMSCI’s Support for ISBL
Mr. Arindam Ghosh, President of FMSCI, said:
“India needed an organized platform to develop motorcycle racing, and ISBL will fill this gap. It will improve safety, technical skills, and career opportunities in motorsports.”
Ducati’s Role in ISBL
Mr. Bipul Chandra, Managing Director of Ducati India, said:
“As a motorcycle supplier for ISBL, Ducati is proud to support the growth of professional racing in India. ISBL’s focus on performance and safety matches our own values.”
400 Riders Have Already Signed Up
Over 400 riders have already registered for ISBL, showing the excitement and demand for professional motorcycle racing in India.
Creating a Path to International Racing
While India has well-structured opportunities for car racing, motorcycle racing lacks such a system. ISBL wants to change that by helping Indian riders develop their skills and move to top international championships like MotoGP and World Superbike.
In the long run, ISBL hopes to become as successful as the British Superbike Championship and Japanese Superbike Championship, which have produced world-class riders.
A Safe and Professional Racing Culture
Apart from competitive racing, ISBL also wants to promote safe riding habits. The league aims to shift motorcycle culture in India from street racing to a controlled racetrack environment, where riders can develop their skills safely and professionally.
With strong support and a clear vision, ISBL is set to revolutionize motorcycle racing in India and create new opportunities for Indian riders on the global stage.
