Indian motorsport received a historic boost this week when Bengaluru rider Aishwarya Pissay became the first woman from India and Asia to win her category at the BP Ultimate Rally-Raid Portugal 2025. The event was the fourth round of the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC), a series recognised as one of the toughest tests in international racing.
The 29-year-old competed in the Rally2 – women’s category and finished on top, while also securing 27th place overall against a strong international line-up. The result has been described as a landmark for Indian riders, especially women entering global motorsport.
Aishwarya participated as a privateer in the championship, an achievement that highlights both her independence and her determination. With the support of TVS Racing and a network of partners, she has steadily built her career to become a recognised face in rally-raid.
“This win means the world to me. Becoming the first woman from Asia and India to win at this level is not just a personal milestone, it’s a message to every young girl who dreams beyond limits. I’m grateful to TVS Racing and all my partners who made this moment possible,” she said after the finish.
The Rally-Raid Portugal stretched across six days, including a prologue, with a total of 2,000 kilometres covered. Out of this, 1,225 kilometres were competitive stages, all on gravel terrain across Portugal and Spain. Organised under the joint banner of FIM and FIA, the rally brought together some of the biggest international names.
Aishwarya’s victory now adds momentum to her long-term target of competing at the Dakar Rally in 2027. She has already set her sights on becoming the first Indian woman to complete the iconic rally on two wheels, and the Portugal result provides both experience and confidence for that journey ahead.
