INDE Racing Clinches Podium Finish at FIM e-xplorer World Cup

In a landmark achievement for Indian motorsport, INDE Racing, the country's first-ever FIM-licensed team, secured a historic third-place finish at the inaugural race of the 2024 FIM e-xplorer World Cup held in Osaka, Japan. This podium finish marks the first time an Indian team has achieved such a feat on the global stage, competing against established international names.

E-Xplorer features two categories – Hyperbikes and GT. The Hyperbikes category is for prototype machines with batteries up to 7kWh and a standard MX bike wheelbase. The GT category, meanwhile, is for bikes based on production models. INDE Racing is competing in the latter of these, using KTM bikes. Their entry makes them the first independent Indian team to compete in an FIM-sanctioned global series.

In its inaugural season, the team enlisted reigning E-Xplorer champion Sandra Gomez, six-time Indian National Rally champion Aishwarya Pissay, and Canadian racer Spenser Wilton. Among them, Gomez and Wilton took part in the Japanese season-opener.

Led by Sandra Gomez, last season's champion, and Indian-origin rider Spenser Wilton, INDE Racing navigated the challenging course. Their combined efforts, fueled by the team's strategic planning and cutting-edge technology, resulted in an impressive 121 points overall. Considering their debut season and first-ever race at this level, this achievement stands as a testament to their immense talent and dedication.

The top spot was claimed by the Japanese Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) with 132 points, followed by Robbie Maddison Racing in second place with 131 points. Despite the competition, INDE Racing's podium finish resonated as a significant victory for Indian motorsport, setting a strong precedent for the rest of the season.

Also Read: TVS Launches India’s First-Ever Electric Two-Wheeler Racing Championship

Abhishek Reddy Kankanala, owner of KSG and INDE Racing, expressed immense pride in the team achievement, said, “This podium finish is a significant and historic milestone for Indian motorsport on a global stage. It is testament to our hard work and collective effort especially given this is our debut season and the first race we have competed in at this level. This special moment in history is for our sponsors and partners who have been instrumental in their unstinting support for the team and most importantly for our fans across the globe who have been cheering for us.”

Also Read: Dakar 2024: Hero Claims Second; First Podium For An Indian Manufacturer

The next race of the 2024 FIM e-xplorer World Cup will be held in Norway in May. With this initial success, INDE Racing has undoubtedly raised the bar for Indian motorsport, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their performance in the upcoming races.