World’s first-ever franchise-based Supercross league, the CEAT ISRL, successfully conducted its Mega Rider Auction for Season One at the prestigious JW Marriott in Pune yesterday, marking a significant milestone in ISRL’s journey. The CEAT Indian Supercross Racing League witnessed a total of 104 riders, including 73 international racers and 31 Indian riders. Each team was allowed up to 2 riders per category, with a maximum of 48 slots available. The cumulative auction kitty for Season One reached a monumental INR 6 Cr, underscoring the league’s commitment to excellence.
In a riveting auction that unfolded among the six teams, the fiercely competitive 85 cc junior class ignited excitement as Bhairav C Gowda’s standout performance earned him the highest bid, underlining his potential as a rising star. The power-packed 450 cc international category witnessed Thomas Ramette securing the highest bid. Meanwhile, breaking barriers in the sport, Aleena Mansur Shaikh and Nithila Das from the 85cc junior class emerged as two female riders called up by teams, emphasizing the growing influence of women in this high-octane world of Supercross. Remarkable stories continued to unfold with Ikshan Shanbhag and Shlok Ghorpade securing the highest bids for Indian riders during the auction. Adding to the intrigue, Sri Lanka’s Nathan Alexander Gunawardena secured the highest bid of the auction which comes from the 250cc India-Asia Mix category, setting a record for Season One. The auction was marked by enthusiasm among bidders eager to secure Indian talent, adding a dynamic element to the competition.
Among the roster of esteemed riders, the league proudly presents some of the most decorated names in Supercross. Notably, Matt Moss, a 9-time Australian MX and SX Champion; 4X Italian Supercross Champion Lorenzo Camporese ; 4X South Africa Champion Anthony Raynard; 2X European/French vice champion Thomas Ramette; Germany’s MXGP Racer Nico Koch; 3X India National champion Rugved Barguje, 2X Indonesia champion Ananda Rigi Aditya.
As the countdown to Season One begins, the CEAT ISRL is set to host an impressive line-up of international champions and rising Indian stars across four exhilarating categories, featuring the 450cc international riders, 250cc international riders, 250cc India-Asia mix, and the super competitive 85cc junior class.
The Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, established in 1994 for the National Games, has a rich history of hosting various national and international sporting events. Notably, the stadium was the epicentre of the 2008 Commonwealth Youth Games, a testament to its world-class facilities and the city’s commitment to sports excellence. Over the years, the complex has hosted events ranging from table tennis championships to FIBA Asia Under-16 Championship for Women, showcasing its versatility and commitment to promoting a wide range of sports.
The decision to choose Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex as the venue for the Pune race was carefully made, considering its deep-rooted history and pride of hosting the 2008 Commonwealth Games.
The CEAT Indian Supercross Racing League is set to kick off its inaugural season, with races in Pune, Ahmedabad, and Delhi. The Ahmedabad race is slated for the 11th of February 2024, followed by the Delhi race on the 25th of February 2024.
CEAT ISRL races are set to captivate audiences across three vibrant cities, promising a blend of fanfare, glamour, and high-octane racing excitement. These events will transcend the traditional racing experience, transforming into star-studded nights filled with top-notch entertainment and electrifying music. The league’s commitment to creating an immersive and unforgettable atmosphere ensures that each race becomes a celebration of both motorsport excellence and a lively entertainment spectacle.
