“Sri Lanka on the Fast Lane: Teenage Racer Hesali Peiris Ignites International Motorsport”
At just 15, Hesali Peiris is already revving up the international motorsport arena, showing that Sri Lanka can produce world-class racing talent. Remarkably, she reached her first podium finish abroad before even claiming one at home, a rare achievement for any athlete—let alone someone so young. Hesali’s story is not just about speed—it’s about courage, ambition, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
A student of Daybridge International School and a proud Dehiwala resident, Hesali has carved out a name for herself across local and regional racing circuits. Her international journey began in 2024 under the mentorship of Thailand’s leading female rider, Sirilak Yiengkulchao. Hesali quickly soared through her first overseas training program, absorbing every lesson with precision and fearlessness. Without hesitation, she stepped onto the international stage, representing Sri Lanka at the FIM Asia Women’s Cup 2024, and secured consistent P7 finishes in both races—a debut that catapulted her onto the Asian motorsport radar.
Encouraged by former FMSSL President Shane Gunawardana, Hesali entered the TVS One Make Championship 2025 in India. Competing in both the Women’s and Rookie categories, she immediately rose to prominence, finishing 1st Runner-Up in the Rookie category and signaling that Sri Lanka’s young talent can take on the world.
Her breakthrough at home came at the SLADA Championship, Rotherham Circuit Meet 2025 – Round 1. Against seasoned competitors in the Group O – Standard/Modified Bikes up to 160cc category, Hesali blazed past experienced riders on her Honda CBR 150R to claim the top step of the podium. Internationally, she continued to make waves, finishing P5 and P7 in Thailand and securing 1st Runner-Up in the Female Category in Taiwan. Competing alongside both male and female riders, she helped Team Sri Lanka climb up to 6th out of 12 nations.
Racing in Sri Lanka: Rising with Adventure and Talent
While still developing, Sri Lanka’s motorsport scene is steadily gaining attention. Circuits like Katukurunda and events such as national championships are attracting both local enthusiasts and regional competitors. Riders and drivers face technical, challenging tracks that test their skills, while spectators enjoy thrilling races set against the island’s lush landscapes and coastal vistas.
Talented athletes like Hesali are helping put Sri Lanka on the map, showing that the country has the skill, ambition, and infrastructure to host exciting motorsport events. Whether it’s bike racing, car racing, or mixed categories, the island is slowly emerging as a destination where speed, skill, and adventure come together. For fans and visitors wanting to follow the sport, updates on competitions and rising stars can be found at Racing in Sri Lanka.
Locally, Hesali continues to dominate the track, winning consecutive races at Katukurunda and preparing for even greater challenges in 2026. Her success is the result of grinding through relentless training, holding fast to discipline, and charging forward with fearless commitment. Alongside her trainer, former race rider Ned Daniel, Hesali inspires a new generation of riders while demonstrating that Sri Lanka has the potential to shine internationally.
For adventure seekers, racing fans, and tourists alike, Sri Lanka is no longer just a tropical paradise—it is a destination where speed, skill, and breathtaking scenery meet. Hesali Peiris embodies the thrill and ambition of this movement, driving the island toward recognition in the exhilarating world of motorsport.
