Bollywood’s most famous motorcycle enthusiast is turning his passion into a bigger mission. John Abraham has signed on as Strategic Advisor to the Indian Superbike League (ISBL), a new franchise-based racing championship that wants to put Indian riders and superbike culture on the national stage.
Quick Facts
- Announcement: October 26, 2026
- Who: John Abraham, actor-entrepreneur
- Role: Strategic Advisor, Indian Superbike League (ISBL)
- Format: Franchise-based championship
- Sanctioned by: Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI)
- Tagline: “Get India Racing”
- Source: Bollywood Hungama
What ISBL Announced
ISBL unveiled John Abraham’s appointment alongside a high-energy promo film. The league describes itself as a sport-meets-entertainment property that blends motorsport, pop culture and music. The film is its first big public statement of that identity, built around performance, technology, personalities and India’s long-standing love of motorcycles.
Why John Abraham?
Abraham is one of India’s best-known bike lovers and a sports team owner as well. In his own words, motorcycles have always been a personal passion, and owning a team taught him what it takes to turn belief into long-term commitment. He says ISBL combines both sides of his life, and he wants to help young Indian riders get the opportunities they deserve while introducing a new generation of fans to racing.
How the League Will Work
ISBL will operate as a franchise-based championship with several classes:
- Two Pro categories
- Amateur
- Female Riders
- Rookie
The league wants to create a structured, competitive pathway for riders. It also aims to open doors for teams, technical personnel, brands, creators and the wider motorsport ecosystem.
Voices Behind the League
Pranav Bakre, CEO, comes from a family of racers. He says building ISBL is deeply personal and hopes to create opportunities for the next generation, with music and culture helping bring more people into racing.
Avi Jain, Managing Director of Dhuleva Group and anchor investor, said his passion for motoring draws him to racing. He wants ISBL to become a premium, commercially sustainable league that fans return to and partners can grow with each season.
Why This Matters for Indian Motorsport
Motorcycle racing in India has long relied on a small circle of dedicated fans and riders. A star-backed, franchise-style league could bring bigger audiences, sponsors and visibility, much like franchise models have done for other Indian sports. The mix of entertainment and racing also suggests the league is aiming at fans beyond traditional motorsport followers.
What Fans Are Asking
Who is John Abraham’s role in ISBL? Strategic Advisor.
Is the league officially recognized? Yes, it is sanctioned by FMSCI.
Will women compete? Yes, ISBL includes a Female Riders class.
When does racing start? Not announced yet.
Where will races be held? Venues haven’t been revealed.
What to Watch Next
ISBL says details on teams, riders, race formats and venues will arrive in due course. Fans should watch for team franchise announcements, rider signings and the season calendar.
Source: Bollywood Hungama