Thaindian News

Chennai, July 4 (IANS) The International Federation for Motocycles (FIM) has approved a grant of $100,000 for training Sarath Kumar, the first Indian rider in the MotoGP in the 125cc category, and also for inviting foreign coaches to assist Indian Supercross and Motocross riders.

The money will be routed through the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of India (FMSCI), which has put in place an action plan to best utilise the money.

Sarath expressed his sincere thanks to the FMSCI, saying: “I would really like to thank the FMSCI and in particular (FMSCI president) Mr. Vicky Chandhok and Mr. Rajan Syal without whom this grant and funding would not have been possible.”

“With no other Indian rider currently at this level, I am extremely grateful for this funding which is very hard to attain and I will do my best to make the FMSCI proud and use this funding in the best manner possible.”

Chandhok welcomed the FIM move and said it shows that India is gaining prominence in the world of motorsports.

“I would firstly like to thank the FIM for recognising the work that the FMSCI has put in over the last few years and for acknowledging the importance of India in global motorsport today,” said Chandhok referring to the staging of the inaugural Indian Formula One Grand Prix in October.

Amit Arora, Chairman, Two-Wheeler Racing Commission said the grant has come at an important time.

“This comes at an important time where India now has our first ever rider in the MotoGp 125cc class and this will help Sarath Kumar immensely to complete his first season in this elite class of motorcycle racing,” said Arora.