Geoffrey Emmanuel set for FIM World JuniorGP debut
First Indian rider on a World Junior Championship grid
Estoril (Portugal), 2 May 2023: A landmark will be scripted this weekend at the Circuit de Estoril in Portugal when Chennai-born 18-year old Geoffrey Emmanuel becomes the first Indian to participate in the FIM World JuniorGP World Championship. The opening round of this Moto3 feeder series, organised by Dorna Sports, is scheduled for May 5-7.
Geoffrey, son of Emmanuel Jebaraj, winner of seven National titles, is representing team Cuna De Campeones that has produced the likes of 2020 World champion Joan Mir besides Jorge Martin and Pedro Acosta among many top-notch riders.
FIM JuniorGP World Championship, comprising seven rounds, is a junior class race event that runs under FIM Moto3 regulations and acts as a Moto3 World Championship feeder class. It is considered to be among the most competitive junior championships in the World.
As part of the preparations, Geoffrey, who is sponsored by Fairstreet Sports, Vidiem, Vamcy Merla, a businessman from Andhra Pradesh Kalyani Group, and Gusto Racing, shifted to Valencia, Spain, last year, and participated in the Hawkers European Talent Cup, a one-make championship by Honda.
“The European Talent Cup was a steep learning curve for me, given the very competitive environment and racing on new circuits. But overall, it did a lot of good for my confidence. I now look forward to the World JuniorGP season which is a big step forward for me as I chase my MotoGP dream,” said Geoffrey.
Earlier this year, Geoffrey tested in Estoril and Valencia, riding the 2018 KTM RC 250GP bike, to prepare for the World JuniorGP season.
Meanwhile, Geoffrey’s younger brother, 17-year old Johann Reeves Emmanuel, is taking part in the FIM JuniorGP European Talent Cup that will be run on the same weekend as the World JuniorGP.
