Cricket Legend Sourav Ganguly To Lead Kolkata Royal Tigers In The Indian Racing Festival

Published: Thursday, July 11, 2024, 16:35 [IST]

The Indian Racing Festival, gearing up for its third season has received a significant boost with Sourav Ganguly joining as the owner of the Kolkata Royal Tigers Racing team. This partnership aims to expand the motorsport ecosystem across India.

Ganguly, known as the 'Prince of Calcutta' and 'Dada,' is a legendary figure in Indian cricket history. His involvement promises to bring excitement and prestige to motor racing in West Bengal and eastern India. With Ganguly at the helm, fans can expect a surge in the sport's popularity.

Indian Racing Festival Overview

The Indian Racing Festival (IRF), conceptualized by Racing Promotions Pvt. Ltd., is designed to captivate India's growing motorsport fan base. The festival includes two main championships: the Indian Racing League (IRL) and the Formula 4 Indian Championship (F4IC).

The IRL is India's only 4-wheel racing league and the world's first gender-neutral racing championship series. It promotes inclusivity and competitive spirit with six city-based teams competing in a dynamic franchise-based competition.

Formula 4 is an open-wheel, single-seater racing category intended for junior drivers. It serves as the first step for aspiring racers from karting to single-seater racing.

Kolkata Royal Tigers' New Era

Sourav Ganguly's ownership of the Kolkata Royal Tigers marks a new era for the team. His leadership is expected to inspire a new generation of motorsport enthusiasts across India, driving young athletes towards greatness.

"We are thrilled to announce Sourav Ganguly as the owner of the Kolkata franchise," said Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman and Managing Director of RPPL. "His visionary leadership brings unparalleled dynamism to the Indian Racing Festival."

Expressing his enthusiasm, Ganguly stated, "I am truly excited to embark on this journey with the Kolkata team in the Indian Racing Festival. Motorsports has always been a passion of mine."

Expanding Motorsport Ecosystem

The IRF encompasses eight city-based teams—Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Kochi, and Ahmedabad—competing from August to November this year. Kolkata's participation adds an extra layer of excitement to the competition.

The FIA-certified Formula 4 Indian Championship attracts young drivers globally and nationally. It offers an opportunity for young drivers in their single-seater journey with minimal investment from their end.

Ganguly's involvement underscores his commitment to fostering sports in India. He also owns Indian Super League side ATK Mohun Bagan and has represented India in over 113 Tests and 311 ODIs.

Building a Legacy

"Together with the Kolkata Royal Tigers, we aim to build a strong legacy in the Indian Racing Festival," said Ganguly. He urged fans to come out in large numbers to watch races and support drivers.

The IRL is FMSCI-approved, adding prestige and official recognition to the competition. It features six city-based teams competing dynamically.

The Formula 4 Indian Championship allows drivers to gain Super License points domestically instead of going abroad. This creates opportunities for young talent within India.

The IRF aims to captivate India's growing motorsport fan base through meticulously curated events like IRL and F4IC.