TVS Racing’s Aishwarya Pissay has created history by becoming the first woman from Asia to compete at the FIM Cross Country Rallies World Championship (W2RC): BP Ultimate Rally-Raid Portugal 2025. The fourth round of the championship, which concludes on September 28, 2025, spans 2,000 km over five stages and a prologue, featuring challenging gravel and dirt tracks across Alentejo and Ribatejo regions in Portugal and Extremadura in Spain.
A Crucial Step Toward Dakar 2026
Aishwarya’s participation in Portugal is a key training milestone ahead of the Rally of Morocco, which serves as a critical qualifier for Dakar Rally 2026. Her ultimate goal is to become the first Indian woman to compete at Dakar, inspiring women riders across India to dream big and break barriers in motorsports.
“Competing at the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship in Portugal is an important step in my preparation. My eyes are firmly set on Dakar Rally 2026, and I hope this journey inspires women racers worldwide to believe in themselves and chase their dreams,” said Aishwarya Pissay, TVS Racer.
TVS Racing: A Launchpad for Champions
Established in 1982 as India’s first factory rally team, TVS Racing has nurtured over 3,000 professional racers and set benchmarks on both national and international tracks. Known for its “Track to Road” philosophy, the team ensures that racing expertise translates into high-performance motorcycles for everyday riders.
In 2016, TVS Racing introduced the world’s first all-women factory racing team, reinforcing its commitment to empowering women riders and creating opportunities for talent like Aishwarya to shine on the global stage.
Industry Recognition and Support
Vimal Sumbly, Head of Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said:
“TVS Racing has always been a trailblazer in Indian motorsports, pushing boundaries and fostering talent. Aishwarya Pissay exemplifies what is possible when skill, courage, and support come together. Her journey from Portugal to Dakar 2026 is inspiring a generation of riders to dream bigger and compete globally.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
From Portugal to Morocco and beyond, Aishwarya’s historic participation is redefining possibilities for women in motorsports. Her journey not only marks a personal milestone but also encourages a new generation of women riders to pursue global racing ambitions.