‘Racing’s IPL’: Sourav Ganguly hails Indian Racing Festival ahead of Goa street circuit debut

Former India captain and Kolkata Royal Tigers owner Sourav Ganguly compares the Indian Racing Festival to the IPL, calling it a game-changer as Goa prepares to host the event in February 2026.

Former Indian cricket captain and Kolkata Royal Tigers team owner Sourav Ganguly has drawn a strong parallel between the Indian Racing Festival (IRF) and the Indian Premier League (IPL), describing the motorsport event as a transformative platform for racing in the country.

Speaking ahead of the upcoming Indian Racing Festival scheduled for February 14 and 15, 2026, Ganguly said the event has the potential to revolutionise Indian motorsport in the same way the IPL reshaped Indian cricket. The festival will be held at the Manohar International Airport in Goa, using a specially designed street circuit.

Ganguly, who owns the Kolkata Royal Tigers team, said street circuits present a unique challenge that goes beyond just the driver. “Street racing tests not only the car but the entire team. Just like pressure moments in cricket reveal a player’s true ability, racing without room for error brings out real character,” he said.

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Comparing IRF directly with the IPL, Ganguly noted that the racing festival brings together international talent and Indian drivers on a single competitive platform. “For me, this is the IPL of racing. It creates an opportunity where global racers and Indian talent compete side by side,” he added.

Commenting on the Goa race, Ganguly pointed out that the new circuit adds another layer of unpredictability. Since it is a fresh track, teams cannot rely on past data or experience. According to him, success will depend on how well the driver, car and team work together under pressure.

He also expressed strong confidence in his team’s racers, highlighting the combination of international exposure and local speed. Ganguly said Tom Canning’s European racing experience, along with Sohil Shah’s understanding of local conditions and pace, gives the Kolkata Royal Tigers a strong competitive edge.

The Indian Racing Festival is expected to draw significant attention as India continues to expand its footprint in global motorsport, with street circuits and city-based racing formats gaining popularity.