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India Gets Its First CIK-FIA Grade-1 Karting Circuit as MIKA Receives Prestigious Certification

MIKA becomes India’s first karting track to receive the prestigious CIK-FIA Grade-1 certification, marking a major leap for grassroots motorsport in the country.

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India Gets Its First CIK-FIA Grade-1 Karting Circuit as MIKA Receives Prestigious Certification

India’s motorsport landscape reached a new milestone today as the Madras International Karting Arena (MIKA) in Sriperumbudur became the first karting circuit in the country to receive a Grade-1 certification from the CIK-FIA, the governing body for international karting.

This coveted certification places MIKA among an elite group of global karting venues, signalling that the facility meets the highest standards in layout, safety, and infrastructure as required by the CIK-FIA. The licence, valid for three years starting April 8, was granted after a comprehensive inspection conducted by CIK-FIA Technical Inspector Willibald Zöttl.

At 1.17 km, MIKA is India’s longest karting circuit and offers multiple track configurations, catering not only to competitive racing but also to corporate events and leisure karting. Its design features a blend of technical corners, high-speed sections, and elevation changes—making it both challenging and enjoyable for drivers of all levels.

The track has already won praise from some of motorsport’s biggest names. Double Formula 1 World Champion Mika Häkkinen, who inaugurated the circuit in September 2023, commended its technical quality and driving experience. India’s Formula 1 pioneers Narain Karthikeyan and Karun Chandhok—who also played a role in the track’s design—were equally impressed with its layout and execution.

“This is a proud moment for Indian motorsport,” said Vicky Chandhok, Vice-President of the Madras Motor Sports Club (MMSC). “From the outset, our goal with MIKA was to build a track that meets international standards—one that can host global competitions while also serving as a hub for grassroots development, corporate events, and family outings. This certification validates those efforts.”

MIKA is located within the Madras International Circuit premises, home to India’s FIA Grade 2 racetrack and a long-time center of motorsport activity in the country. With the new certification, MIKA is set to host the upcoming Karting Karnival—a three-round series scheduled to take place across April and May.

The recognition from CIK-FIA not only enhances India’s presence in the global karting community but also reinforces MIKA’s ambition to nurture the next generation of racing talent while offering world-class experiences for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Indian Motorsports

Mumbai Street Circuit Announced; Set to A Host Night Race in 2025

Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis has officially announced the Mumbai Street Circuit, set to host a night race. With this, Mumbai becomes the fourth city to feature a street race and only the second to stage a night street race.

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Mumbai Street Circuit Announced; Set to A Host Night Race in 2025

“This is a step in the direction to make Maharashtra the motorsports capital of Asia. We will be hosting the F4 race as a street circuit in Navi Mumbai as our 1st initiative in this direction.” – Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

The Mumbai Street Circuit will host Round 5 of the Indian Racing League and Indian Formula 4 on November 29–30, 2025. With this, Mumbai joins Hyderabad, Chennai, and Goa as a street circuit host city, becoming only the second venue to stage a night street race after the Chennai Formula Racing Circuit, which held its race in August 2024.

Mumbai Street Circuit Announced; Set to A Host Night Race in 2025
Chennai Formula Racing Circuit, August 2024

Neither Racing Promotions Private Limited nor the Government of Maharashtra have confirmed details of the track or location yet. It is understood that more details, including the track layout, will be revealed closer to the round in November.


Desi Racing Co. is dedicated to bringing the latest updates and insights from the world of motorsport. Whether it’s Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, or other racing series, we’ve got you covered! Stay connected with us for in-depth motorsport coverage. Follow us on Twitter/XInstagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest motorsport news and updates.

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Indian Motorsports

Goa Street Circuit Officially Announced, Set to Host First Race in 2025

The Goa Street Circuit has been officially announced and will host its first race in 2025 as part of the Indian Racing Festival. Goa becomes the third Indian city with a street circuit following Hyderabad and Chennai.

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Goa Street Circuit Officially Announced, Set to Host First Race in 2025
Image Credit - Indian Racing Festival

The Goa Street Circuit has been approved by the Goa cabinet and is set to host Round 4 of the Indian Racing Festival in late October this year. Earlier in the year, Goa Tourism gave Principal approval to the Goa Street Circuit.

Goa Street Circuit Officially Announced, Set to Host First Race in 2025
Track layout for the Goa Street Circuit

Honourable Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, today announced the “Goa Street
Race 2025” — a 3.2 km oceanfront circuit at Headland Sada, Bogda, as the official venue
for Round 4 of the 2025 Indian Racing Festival (IRF). Announced at a prestigious ceremony
at Auditorium 1, Maquinez Palace, ESG, Panjim, Goa, this landmark initiative reflects Dr.
Sawant’s visionary leadership in positioning Goa as a premier global destination for high-
Octane International Sporting Events. Scheduled from 1 to 2 November 2025, the race
promises to deliver a world-class motorsport spectacle against the state’s iconic coastline
while driving economic growth, tourism, and global recognition for the state of Goa.

Goa Street Circuit Officially Announced, Set to Host First Race in 2025

The landmark announcement was graced by the presence of Asvin Chandru, IAS, CM
Secretary and CEO of the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG); Shri Sankalp Amonkar, MLA –
Mormugao; Shri. Sarpreet Singh Gill, IAS, Secretary – Information & Publicity, Government
of Goa; and Mr. Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman & Managing Director of Racing Promotions Pvt.
Ltd. (RPPL).

Goa Street Circuit Officially Announced, Set to Host First Race in 2025

The Goa Street Race 2025 promises to be a star-studded affair with an impressive line-up of
Celebrity team owners bringing their charisma and passion for motorsport to the track.
Leading the charge is John Abraham with the home team, Goa Aces JA Racing, joined by
Arjun Kapoor is steering the Speed Demons Delhi, and cricketing legend Sourav Gangulyis
powering the Kolkata Royal Tigers. Adding to the excitement, Sudeep Kichcha leads
Kichcha’s Kings Bengaluru, Naga Chaitanya backs the Hyderabad Blackbirds, and Dr. Swetha
Sundeep Anand drives the spirit of Chennai Turbo Riders. Their presence is set to amplify
the thrill and glamour of this high-octane event.

“Goa’s rich heritage, dynamic culture, and stunning coastline provide an iconic stage for a motorsport property of global significance,” said Mr. Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman &
Managing Director, RPPL.


Desi Racing Co. is dedicated to bringing the latest updates and insights from the world of motorsport. Whether it’s Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, or other racing series, we’ve got you covered! Stay connected with us for in-depth motorsport coverage. Follow us on Twitter/XInstagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest motorsport news and updates.

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Indian Motorsports

Akshay Bohra Makes History with Dominant Victory at Imola in FRECA 2025

Akshay Bohra made history as the first Indian driver to take a race victory in the Formula Regional European Championship.

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Akshay Bohra Makes History with Dominant Victory at Imola in FRECA 2025

Akshay Bohra delivered a commanding lights-to-flag performance at the iconic Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, claiming a well-earned victory in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine (FRECA). The win marks a major milestone in the young Indian-American driver’s career and further cements his reputation as one of the brightest emerging talents in junior single-seaters.

Akshay Bohra
© Dutch Photo Agency.

The 18-year-old, who became the first Indian to win a European single-seater title with his Euro 4 Championship triumph last year, made the step up to Formula Regional cars in 2024. Earlier this year, he also tasted victory in the Formula Regional Middle East Championship—signalling his smooth transition into more powerful machinery.

Arriving at Imola off the back of a podium finish at Paul Ricard, Bohra came into the weekend with strong momentum. He was consistently quick during pre-event testing on Thursday and Friday, frequently appearing at the sharp end of the timing sheets.

Akshay Bohra Makes History with Dominant Victory at Imola in FRECA 2025
© Dutch Photo Agency.

In Qualifying 1 on Saturday, Bohra narrowly missed out on topping his group, qualifying second by just 0.186 seconds behind his more experienced teammate. Starting P3 on the grid, he briefly slipped to fourth at the end of Lap 1 but quickly regained the position with what was arguably one of the best overtakes of the season. He went on to finish third, scoring his third podium of the season—the most ever by an Indian driver in the championship’s history.

Akshay Bohra Makes History with Dominant Victory at Imola in FRECA 2025
© Dutch Photo Agency.

Sunday, however, was a landmark day. Bohra claimed his first-ever pole position in FRECA—also a first for any Indian driver in the series. He then converted that pole into a dominant race victory, showcasing maturity, composure, and masterful control around one of the most technically demanding tracks on the calendar.

Akshay Bohra Makes History with Dominant Victory at Imola in FRECA 2025
© Dutch Photo Agency.

“Winning at Imola feels incredible. It’s a track with so much history, and to stand on the top step here is really special,” said Bohra. “The team gave me a fantastic car, and everything came together today. I’m proud of the progress we’re making this season.”

– Akshay Bohra

With this result, Bohra has climbed to 5th in the overall championship standings as the season crosses its halfway point. The victory is a testament to his relentless work ethic and rapid development in one of the most competitive junior categories in the world.
Akshay Bohra’s breakthrough at Imola not only highlights his undeniable talent but also stands as a proud moment for Indian motorsport, as he continues to inspire the next generation and represent India on the global racing stage.

About Akshay Bohra

Akshay Bohra was born in New York City and lived most of his childhood in Bangalore, India, where he began his racing career at age six in go karts. The 18-year-old Indian-American racing driver currently competes in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine and is managed by driver management company ADD, which also manages reigning F1 vice world champion Lando Norris of McLaren Racing. He is the only Indian driver to have won a European single-seater championship, with a title-winning campaign in the 2024 Euro 4 Championship. With a background in international karting and consistent success in the junior formula scene, Bohra is regarded as one of the most promising talents in global motorsport and the best Indian prospect in recent history.


Desi Racing Co. is dedicated to bringing the latest updates and insights from the world of motorsport. Whether it’s Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, or other racing series, we’ve got you covered! Stay connected with us for in-depth motorsport coverage. Follow us on Twitter/XInstagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest motorsport news and updates.

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