Sourav Ganguly buys Kolkata Royal Tigers Racing Team in Indian Racing Festival

Former India cricket captain and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has invested in the Indian Racing Festival by becoming an owner of the Kolkata Royal Tigers Racing team ahead of the 2024 season. This partnership would boost the Indian Racing Festival as it aims to expand the motorsport ecosystem across India.

The Indian Racing Festival, conceptualized by Racing Promotions Pvt. Ltd., is a curated motorsport event. The festival encompasses two main championships: the Indian Racing League (IRL) and the Formula 4 Indian Championship (F4IC).

With eight city-based teams—Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Kochi, and Ahmedabad—set to compete from August to November this year, the Indian Racing Festival promises an exhilarating season of high-speed action. Kolkata is set to participate for the first time, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition.

Sourav Ganguly, known as the ‘Prince of Calcutta’ and ‘Dada,’ a legendary figure in Indian cricket history, has joined the Kolkata Royal Tigers as an owner.

“We are thrilled to announce Sourav Ganguly as the owner of the Kolkata franchise. His visionary leadership and commitment to excellence, shaped by years of legendary cricketing success, brings unparalleled dynamism to the Indian Racing Festival. Ganguly’s influence is set to inspire a new generation of motorsport enthusiasts across India, igniting passion and driving young athletes towards greatness. Additionally, his association is expected to significantly enhance awareness of the Indian Racing Festival (IRF) among a broader audience, further solidifying its position as a premier motorsport event in India” stated Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman and Managing Director of RPPL.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the association, Sourav Ganguly said “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 while this opportunity not only allows me to contribute to the growth of motorsport in Kolkata but also aligns with my belief in fostering a culture of excellence and sportsmanship. Together with the Kolkata Royal Tigers, we aim to build a strong legacy in the Indian Racing Festival and inspire a new generation of motorsport enthusiasts, making the Kolkata Royal Tigers a formidable force in the Festival”

Sourav Ganguly, who has an illustrious career representing India in over 113 Tests and 311 ODIs, is known for his ability to nurture young talent and lead teams to victory. His involvement in the Indian Racing Festival, alongside his ownership of Indian Super League side Mohun Bagan SG, underscores his commitment to fostering sports in India. Ganguly also urged fans to come out in large numbers to watch the races and support the drivers, promising an exhilarating experience.

About Indian Racing Festival

The Indian Racing League (IRL) is India’s only 4-wheel racing league and the world’s first gender-neutral racing championship series, promoting inclusivity and competitive spirit. IRL features 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 is the first step of the ladder for an aspiring racing driver from karting to single-seater racing.