Formula 1 and Mumbai Falcons Launch India’s First Official F1 Sim Racing Championship

Mumbai, April 28, 2026: In a landmark move for Indian motorsport and esports, Formula 1 and Mumbai Falcons Racing Limited have jointly announced the launch of India’s first officially sanctioned F1 sim racing competition — the F1 Sim Racing India Open 2026.

This pioneering initiative marks the first time Formula 1 has introduced a dedicated national-level sim racing programme exclusively for India, creating a structured pathway for aspiring racers to transition from virtual racing to professional motorsport.

A New Era for Motorsport and Esports in India

The championship will be conducted on F1 25, the official game of the FIA Formula One World Championship, offering participants an authentic racing experience with real-world circuits, formats, and team liveries.

Registrations will open on April 30, 2026, via the MFRL app, with players able to compete across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox platforms. The competition will feature multiple stages, beginning with online qualifiers, followed by city-based simulator rounds, and culminating in a grand national final in Mumbai in November 2026.

Strengthening India’s Motorsport Pipeline

The initiative comes at a time when interest in Formula 1 is surging in India, supported by the recognition of esports under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025. The championship aims to tap into the country’s growing gaming community while building a credible talent pipeline aligned with global F1 development pathways.

Indian motorsport pioneer Narain Karthikeyan welcomed the move, highlighting India’s massive F1 fan base and the importance of structured opportunities for young talent.

Mumbai Falcons’ Proven Track Record

Founded in 2019, Mumbai Falcons Racing Limited has rapidly established itself as a key force in global junior motorsport development. The team has played a role in nurturing several future stars, including Jehan Daruvala and Kush Maini, among others who have progressed through international racing ranks.

The organisation is also notable for becoming the first Indian team to win an FIA-accredited single-seater championship, underlining its credentials in talent identification and development.

Driving the Future of Indian Motorsport

With the F1 Sim Racing India Open 2026, Formula 1 and Mumbai Falcons aim to bridge the gap between esports and real-world racing, offering Indian talent unprecedented access to the global motorsport ecosystem.