The biggest change from now on will be the acceptance of online racing says, Rayomand Banajee
By Sanjay Jadhav
June 9, 2020
As India is gearing up to open-up slowly post lockdown, the motorsports fraternity is also keeping a close eye on developments and are keen to get back on track.
The lockdown has witnessed changes to the motorsports field. From roaring engines, spectator filled stands to online racing and limited crowds at actual events, motorsports will now witness some changes post the lockdown.
Speaking to Motoarc, Rayomand Banajee who is an eight-time national karting champion and currently the team principal of Rayo Racing threw light on how the motorsports fraternity has been affected and how they are gearing up for a change.
“All over the world, all sports and also motorsports have taken a bad hit. It’s no different for us here in India. It has certainly impacted us very badly. However, it is also an opportunity to innovate. Many racers are now racing online,” Rayomand informed.
When quizzed about the changes which will be seen in motorsports post the corona era, Rayomand said “The biggest change will be the acceptance of online racing. Our company IR eSports has recently started an online racing league – Indian Sim Racing League in association with Volkswagen Motorsport. This has brought Indian racers from over 14 cities to race together. Moreover, others can also view the races live, on various social media streams.”
Speaking about precautions, organisers should take after the lockdown, Rayomand said “Social distancing is very obvious and is the most important precaution they will have to take. In events that see a huge number of participants, we will have to stagger the different categories so that only a few competitors come to the venue at the same time. Briefings will have to be done such that there is enough distance between people who are present.”
“Initially spectators would probably be barred from the event. Organisers will have to frequently sanitize common areas and probably move things like entry formalities online and minimize the use of cash exchanges. Online payments and eWallets will be the right way forward,” Rayomand added.
“Recession combined with lockdown has affected us badly. There is no easy solution for it. It is definitely going to take time to recover. We will definitely have to find new ways to cut costs, improve efficiency and try out different avenues for income,” Rayomand informed.
“Even once the lockdown is over, catching the virus is going to be a very realistic situation. Staying fit will help improving immunity. One must continue to take basic precautions like wearing a mask, social distancing and sanitising hands after touching external objects. Take care and stay safe,” Rayomand concluded.
