Bengaluru ace Hemanth Muddappa returns with renewed determination to the Madras International Circuit this weekend for the decisive final two rounds of the MMSC FMSCI Indian National Motorcycle Drag Racing Championship 2025, where the title race remains finely balanced.
Aiming for Milestones
Riding for Mantra Racing, the 15-time National champion is set to tackle four premier categories as he pursues another milestone season. Known across the paddock as India’s “Drag King,” Muddappa currently leads in two of the four classes he contests and remains in the hunt in the other two, keeping the prospect of adding multiple championships alive to his already unmatched résumé.
Supported by his long-time tuner and technical partner, Sharan Pratap, Muddappa will line up on trusted superbikes: the Gen3 Hayabusa, BMW S1000RR, and Ninja 6R, competing in the Unrestricted (Super Sport), 1051–1650cc, 851–1050cc, and 551–850cc Super Sport categories.
Consistency and Competition
The opening two rounds in September showcased both his enduring consistency and the growing intensity of competition. Muddappa commenced the season strongly, securing a commanding triple victory in the 551–850cc, 851–1050cc, and 1051–1650cc classes. He then returned on the last Sunday of September to clinch a double in the 851–1050cc and 1051–1650cc categories.
The Unrestricted class saw new winners emerge, with Mumbai’s Hanuman Pawshe and Bengaluru’s former National champion Alimon Saidalvi taking turns at the top. Hyderabad’s seasoned Mohammed Riyaz, Bengaluru’s Mujahid Pasha, and a clutch of emerging riders maintained high pressure. Mantra Racing also celebrated the ascent of Mumbai youngster Shahrukh Khan, who dominated the Indian bike categories in Round 2.
Final Rounds Ahead
For Muddappa, precision and execution are paramount in the final two rounds, where hundredths of a second could decide the season. His ability to deliver clean launches under pressure has consistently been his strength, and he will once again rely on this trademark rhythm as the championship returns to the MIC strip.
“Every championship comes down to consistency, teamwork, and staying calm when it matters most,” said Muddappa as he looks forward to the double-header. “The competition has grown stronger every year, but that only pushes us to work harder. We are ready for the challenge.”
With the promoter Madras Motor Sports Club hosting the final showdown, the stage is set for a high-speed climax to the 2025 drag racing season. All eyes will be on Mantra Racing’s spearhead as he aims to extend his remarkable chase of National titles.