MotoGP Bharat says sorry for distorted map in broadcast on a day when Shubh is cancelled in India

In the midst of a series of hiccups surrounding the MotoGP Bharat, which commenced on September 22 at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, another controversy emerged after a broadcast displayed a distorted map of India.

The map notably omitted the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, drawing sharp criticism from Indian fans, just a few days after Punjabi singer Shubh faced backlash for sharing a story featuring another distorted map of India that resulted in the cancellation of his India Tour for 2023.

As the 25-year-old singer Shubh remains cancelled in India, Moto GP Bharat , after an apology, stays on track.

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The inaugural edition of the MotoGP Bharat had already been grappling with a series of problems, including visa issues for participants, hotel booking issues, fraud related to it, and some concerns about track fitness.

READ MORE: Visa delays nearly pushed MotoGP Bharat off track, but MEA saves the day

Moto GP's distorted map

• The MotoGP broadcast's portrayal of India's distorted map did not sit well with Indian fans, prompting widespread outrage on social media platforms.

• Many individuals voiced their concerns online, demanding both a correction and an apology.

• Some even suggested that this distortion was an intentional move to hurt Indian sentiments.

Moto GP's apology

• In response to the public outrage, MotoGP issued an apology, acknowledging the error in the map display.

• In a statement, they said, "We'd like to apologize to our fans in India for the map shown earlier as part of the MotoGP broadcast."
• They further clarified, "It is never our intent to make any statement other than that of support and appreciation for our host country."

This apology from MotoGP aimed to mend relations with Indian fans and address the controversies that have marred the start of the Grand Prix in India.

Shubh's map fiasco

• Earlier, Punjabi singer Shubh had posted a distorted map of India in support of the Khalistani movement, though he later claimed he didn't intend to hurt anyone and expressed his attachment to India and Punjab.

• He cited his actions as a form of prayer for Punjab amid reports of electricity and internet shutdowns in the state during the ongoing farmer's protests.

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