Mahindra Racing Exits Moto3 at the End of 2017

Mahindra have confirmed that this season will be their last in premiere motorcycle racing as the Indian outfit exits Moto3 class following a shift of priorities towards electrified racing.

It comes hot on the heels of an emotional maiden win on the hands of Felix Rosenqvist in Formula E. It was back in 2011 Mahindra entered MotoGP and despite the hardships, it took until 2016 for them to register a highly successful season as three race wins were recorded.

Unable to capitalise it in 2017, they have not taken any points with more than half the calendar already been completed. Mahindra Group believes that Formula E provides them with more international exposure and relevancy in terms of development.

Mahindra’s maiden podium in Moto3 came courtesy of Miguel Oliveira two years after debut that prompted them to expand into engine and bike supplying role by 2015. Francesco Bagnaia took the chequered flag at Assen last year before triumphing at Malaysia while John McPhee rode to victory in Brno.

With a highly credible 13 podium, Mahindra’s run at the top-tier MotoGP series was obviously a success. The exit could be partly driven by the dwindling sales in the domestic two-wheeler market. Amidst the announcement, Mahindra Racing is going strong in Formula E currently and has a season to boast about already.