Preparations are underway for return of F1 to India: Sports Min Mandaviya
New Delhi, April 13
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Monday said the government is actively working to promote motorsports and is pushing for the return of Formula 1 to India before 2027, after nearly 13 years.
In an informal interaction with media here, Mandaviya said that preparations are underway for the return of Formula 1 to India, and the target is to host an F1 race before 2027.
"Preparations are underway for the return of Formula One (F1) to India after a gap of nearly 13 years. Issues related to the track have been resolved, and the work is expected to be completed within the next six months. The goal is to host an F1 race in India again before 2027," he said.
Additionally, the sports minister said plans are in place to bring events like MotoGP to India soon, with necessary improvements currently in progress.
The Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix was held for three seasons from 2011 to 2013 at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Sebastian Vettel won all three races, driving for Red Bull Racing. The event was dropped from the calendar after 2013 due to taxation, high costs, and bureaucratic issues.
Buddh International Circuit was the first circuit to bring international motorsport to India, bursting onto the scene as the host of the Formula One Indian Grand Prix in 2011.
Designed by Hermann Tilke, the track has been largely well-received by the drivers and looked set to firmly establish India on the international motorsport calendar. Sadly, a tax dispute meant that Formula One's stay was all too brief; after two more races, the Grand Prix was suspended for 2014 and ultimately dropped from the calendar altogether.
Mandaviya also reiterated that the government's focus is on strengthening sports at every level, encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in sports.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While F1 is exciting, I hope the government's focus on "strengthening sports at every level" isn't just talk. We need more investment in grassroots sports facilities and training for our athletes in less glamorous sports too. Let's not put all eggs in one basket.
Remember watching Vettel win in 2012! The atmosphere was electric. If they can bring it back before 2027, it will be a dream come true for fans. Fingers crossed the bureaucracy doesn't mess it up again.
As someone who attended the 2013 race, this is welcome news. The track was brilliant. Hoping for better promotion and ticket pricing this time to make it more accessible for local fans, not just the elite.
MotoGP too? Wah! That's even better. Two-wheel racing has a massive following here. This could really inspire a new generation of Indian riders and engineers. Let's go! 🇮🇳
Good initiative, but the proof will be in the pudding. They said "work expected to be completed in six months"—we've heard such deadlines before. Hope they deliver on time and within budget. The world is watching.
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