The launch event brought together prominent figures from the motorsport industry, including Mr. Arindam Ghosh, President of FMSCI; Mr. Vicky Chandhok, Council Member and Former President of FMSCI, Mr. M.R. Dastur, Chairman of the FMSCI 2-Wheeler Racing Commission; Mr. Bipul Chandra, Managing Director of Ducati India; and Mr. Sirish Vissa, Director of ISBL.

With a vision to harness home-grown talent and elevate the country’s motorsports ecosystem, the ISBL, a franchise-based league, will feature multiple motorcycle classes alongside exemplary racing infrastructure. The ISBL envisions establishing a structured pathway for riders to demonstrate their potential on the national stage. The league will have each franchise competing across all categories, which include:

• Pro Categories (Two Classes)
• Amateur Class
• Female Riders Class
• Rookie Class

Speaking on the vision of the league, Pranav Bakre, Director, of the Indian Superbike League, said, “The Indian Superbike League is designed to be a transformative force in Indian motorsports. It is aimed at establishing a dynamic ecosystem constructed to empower riders, technicians, and support staff with a robust and sustainable platform to develop their skills, push boundaries, and form lasting careers. Simultaneously, ISBL is committed to producing a world-class sporting spectacle, uplifting the stature of Indian motorsports on the global stage while harnessing a culture of excellence, innovation, high-octane entertainment, and world-class content creation.”

Sirish Vissa, Director, of the Indian Superbike League, added, “The Indian Superbike League is designed not just to expedite a racing revolution, but about positively revamping India’s motorcycle culture. There is palpable interest in two-wheelers across the country, especially in tier-II, and tier-III cities. The Indian Superbike League will be a sustainable career path not just for racers but for the whole ecosystem of motorcycle racing. We wish to create a framework that can take their interest, professionalize their ambitions, and lay out a pathway for them to move up the ladder and compete both nationally and internationally. We intend to promote not just local but also marginalized talent in all aspects of racing. Our vision is to cultivate a cultural change in the ecosystem by supporting riders, improving technical know-how, and elevating standards of Indian motorsports.”

Arindam Ghosh, President, of FMSCI, said, “India has long needed an organized platform to develop motorcycle racing talent, and ISBL looks set to be that game-changer. By offering a professionally managed, well-constructed racing environment, ISBL is setting the foundation for a flourishing ecosystem that supports riders and also advances technical expertise, safety standards, and career pathways within the sport. We are excited for this initiative as it takes Indian motorsports onto the global stage.”

Highlighting Ducati’s role in this project, Bipul Chandra, Managing Director, Ducati India, commented, “As a supplier of motorcycles for ISBL, we see this as an opportunity to contribute to the evolution of motorcycle racing in India. ISBL’s focus on performance, technology, safety, and rider development aligns seamlessly with our philosophy and we look forward to supporting the league in its mission to build a strong foundation for Indian motorsports.”

Over 400 riders have already signed up for ISBL, highlighting a strong pull for a high-calibre racing championship.

The four-wheeler motorsport ecosystem in India has a structured pathway for drivers to obtain necessary experience and exposure to transition into the international stage, but similar opportunities in motorcycle racing are limited. It is a glaring gap that the ISBL intends to fill to augment opportunities in this space. By bridging this gap, the ISBL will offer a professional platform where Indian riders can develop their skills, compete at a competitive level, and gradually progress to prestigious international championships like MotoGP and World Superbike.

As a long-term vision, the ISBL intends to stand alongside elite racing series such as the British Superbike and Japanese Superbike – competitions that have been constructed on the foundation of strong home-grown talent. Primarily, the ISBL is envisioned to nurture Indian riders, technicians, crew members, raising a comprehensive ecosystem that furnishes sustainable career opportunities within the sport.

In the initial few years, the focus will be directed towards developing Indian talent, paving the way for the country to produce its motorsport heroes. Transcending competitive racing, the ISBL remains competitive towards promoting a safe riding culture. The ISBL looks to shift the culture of motorcycling in India from the streets to a more controlled, professional racetrack environment, which boosts the skill levels of Indian riders and also ingrains a sense of greater discipline and safety amongst motorcyclists nationwide.

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From supercars and superbikes to vintage classics and modern marvels, the auto carnival will bring together over 500 vehicles under one roof. The event will see the presence of the global racing icons, Mika Häkkinen and Narain Karthikeyan, alongside motorsport veteran Gaurav Gill. The centerpiece will be Ravi Shastri’s iconic Audi 100, restored by the Super Car Club Garage (SCCG), reflecting the craftsmanship and commitment to cherishing heritage that mirrors the ethos of the Raymond brand. The third-gen Audi 100, which went on sale internationally around 1982, was declared a ‘national asset’ by Shastri himself after Gautam Singhania, Chairman & Managing Director, of Raymond Group, handed over the restored vehicle to him.

Commenting on the event, Gautam Hari Singhania, said, “The Raymond 100 Autofest is more than a showcase of automobiles; it’s a celebration of passion, ingenuity, and our deep connection with the community. This event encapsulates our ethos of excellence and evolution, much like the automotive world we’re celebrating – a perfect ode to our remarkable 100-year journey.”

Founded in 1925, the Raymond Group started as a humble textile manufacturer, flourishing into an institution synonymous with quality and innovation. Much like the evolution of the motoring world, the journey has been one of resilience, adaptation, and reinvention. This Raymond 100 Autofest embodies this spirit, weaving a narrative of how both Raymond and the city of Thane have grown together, rooted in tradition yet looking towards the future.

This unique event, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for car and bike lovers across MMR, promises something for every visitor. Vintage automobile lovers will revel in the nostalgic allure of classic cars and vintage bikes, while thrill-seekers can marvel at today’s superbikes and supercars, including Harley-Davidson. The atmosphere will be alive with live music performances, an eclectic flea market, interactive kid zones, and gourmet food courts, ensuring a wholesome experience for families and casual visitors alike.

With its grand scale and ambitious vision, the Raymond 100 Autofest aims to earn a place in the Indian Book of Records through its eclectic display and sheer scale. Featuring rare gems of engineering brilliance, the event highlights India’s evolving automotive culture, blending heritage with contemporary innovations. It invites enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a celebration of artistry and craftsmanship that transcends generations. Whether one is drawn by the allure of vintage classics or the cutting-edge design of supercars, the Raymond 100 Autofest will be a gateway to experiencing history, innovation, and the enduring legacy of India’s most beloved and trusted brand.

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