Prize money introduced at every round as MRF Indian National Racing Challenge 2W — 2026 starts at MIC

The MRF Indian National Racing Challenge 2W — 2026 will begin this weekend at the Madras International Circuit (MIC), organisers said on August 13, 2026, with the opening round attracting 116 entries.

The series is scheduled as a five-round competition to be held over five months. Almost all elite riders, representing 15 teams, are expected to compete across different grids. Entries for the inaugural round have come from across India and Nepal. Organisers have introduced prize money to be awarded at every round to individual podium finishers and to teams, in addition to the trophies.

As a cost-control measure, Superstock (limited modifications) will be introduced in the 165cc (Intermediate and Girls) and the 301-400cc Open classes. The SuperSport 301-400cc Open has been designated the premier category for the championship. These technical specifications alter the class structure for the 2026 series.

Petronas TVS Racing will stage its own One-Make Championship alongside the national event, comprising Expert, Rookie, Girls, Electric RTE and Media (three rounds) categories. The Media category is indicated as running across three rounds within that One-Make programme.

MMSC president Ajit Thomas said: "After months of preparations that included a few rounds of discussions with the competitors and their teams, we have put together a new-look event which will enjoy as much significance and status as any other National-level competition." He added: "We have gone to great lengths to enhance the safety features at the MIC, which was recently inspected and approved by the FIA. We welcome all the stakeholders, especially our long-time sponsors MRF Tyres, to a new season of hope and expectations."

The opening round at the MIC this weekend will kick-start the five-round championship spread over as many months.