In the vibrant realm of Indian motorsport, few figures embody the spirit of innovation and determination quite like Akhil Reddy.
As the owner of the Indian Racing League (IRL), Reddy is on a mission to reshape the motorsport landscape in a country where cricket has historically dominated the sporting scene. Over the past two years, he has spearheaded transformative initiatives, including the launch of the IRL and the F4 championship, culminating in the successful establishment of a night street circuit in Chennai.
In a recent interview, Reddy opened up about his ambitious vision for the future of motorsport in India, the vital role of celebrity endorsements, and the pressing need to change public perceptions about the sport. As the excitement for racing grows and new opportunities arise, Reddy's passion for motorsport serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring drivers and fans alike.
Reddy’s ambition is not just to promote a sport; it’s to create memorable experiences for cities hosting these events. A significant achievement has been the establishment of a night street circuit in Chennai, made possible through the robust support of the Tamil Nadu government. This collaboration has been instrumental in ensuring the event's success, drawing large crowds and generating substantial engagement online.
The involvement of celebrities has played a pivotal role in elevating the league's profile. Notable figures such as former cricketer Sourav Ganguly, actor John Abraham, and Tollywood star Naga Chaitanya have joined as team owners, significantly enhancing the league's visibility. Reddy emphasised, “Their participation not only raises our profile but also adds a layer of credibility that attracts more fans and sponsors. This blend of sports and celebrity culture is a powerful tool for engaging a wider audience.”
The Tamil Nadu government’s involvement has been commendable, facilitating logistics and promoting the event through local media. The recent Chennai night race generated over 5.38 billion mentions online within just four days, a remarkable feat for motorsport in a country where the sport is still gaining traction.
When asked about the appetite for motorsport in India, Reddy confidently stated, “Absolutely. India has always had motorsport enthusiasts, but the myth that participation is too costly has hindered its growth. Our initiatives have shown that motorsport can be both engaging and accessible.” The surge in public interest is evidenced by the packed grandstands and enthusiastic crowds at recent events, indicating a growing acceptance of motorsport as a mainstream sport.
Addressing the perception that motorsport is an expensive endeavour, Reddy pointed out that the costs are now comparable to those in other sports. “The price for entry into karting remains around Rs 75,000 to Rs 1 lakh, which is similar to what one might spend on sports like cricket. We’re actively working to make motorsport more accessible.”
Infrastructure improvements have also marked the last two years, with new karting tracks established in cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Chennai. Reddy noted, “We’re seeing three to five karting tracks in many areas, and next year, we expect three permanent tracks to be built. This is substantial for the motorsport landscape in India and reflects growing interest and investment in the sport.”
Public awareness is another area where Reddy is focused. Through outreach events like a successful show run in Srinagar, he aims to demystify motorsport and make it relatable to the public. “These initiatives encourage engagement and highlight that motorsport is a viable and exciting option,” he explained. Utilising social media to reach younger audiences, Reddy is committed to showcasing the thrilling aspects of motorsport.
Media coverage of motorsport in India has evolved significantly. Initially skeptical about the viability of events like the night race, many outlets have begun recognising the sport's potential following the success of recent events. Reddy noted, “The shift in media perception is critical for building public interest and credibility.”
Celebrity involvement has been instrumental in elevating the visibility of the league. They bring their fan base and credibility to the sport, which helps attract more attention and sponsorship. Reddy expressed confidence that achieving these milestones will inspire countless others to pursue their dreams in this field.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Reddy highlighted the need to change public perception regarding the costs associated with motorsport. He also mentioned that navigating the regulatory landscape and ensuring community support for events are ongoing challenges.
The economic potential of motorsport in India is significant. “It can create jobs—not just for drivers, but for mechanics, engineers, and support staff,” he stated. Successful motorsport events can stimulate local economies by attracting tourism and investment, with discussions underway with manufacturers like Ford about establishing a presence in India.
Reddy’s vision for the future of motorsport in India is ambitious. He aims to see at least one Indian female driver in Formula 2 and one Indian driver from the league participating in Formula 1 by 2030. “This journey is about establishing a foundation for future generations to thrive in motorsport,” he emphasised.
Reddy’s message to aspiring motorsport enthusiasts is clear, “Motorsport is not just a dream; it’s an achievable goal.” His unwavering passion and dedication to the sport signify an exciting era for motorsport in India, paving the way for new talent and opportunities in the years to come. As the landscape evolves, Reddy remains committed to nurturing talent and fostering a vibrant motorsport culture in the country.
