India Gears Up for Formula 1's Comeback: Sports Minister Mandaviya
Synopsis
Exciting news from New Delhi! Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya confirms the government's commitment to reviving Formula 1 in India by 2027, after a long absence. This ambitious plan seeks to reestablish the country as a motorsports hub.
Key Takeaways
Formula 1 is set to return to India by 2027 after a 13-year absence.
Extensive preparations are currently underway at the Buddh International Circuit .
Government is focusing on improving motorsports infrastructure.
Plans are in place to introduce MotoGP to India soon.
The Indian Grand Prix was last held from 2011 to 2013, with Sebastian Vettel as the winner.
New Delhi, April 13 (NationPress) Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Monday that the government is making significant strides to elevate motorsports in the country, with a specific goal to reinstate Formula 1 in India by 2027, marking a return after nearly 13 years.
During a casual media interaction, Mandaviya shared that extensive preparations are in progress to bring back Formula 1 to Indian soil, aiming for an event before 2027.
"We are in the midst of organizing the return of Formula One (F1) to India after a hiatus of nearly 13 years. Key issues concerning the racetrack have been addressed, and the expected completion timeline is within six months. Our ambition is to host an F1 race in India again before the year 2027," he stated.
Moreover, the sports minister revealed plans to introduce events like MotoGP to India soon, with ongoing enhancements to infrastructure.
The Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix took place for three consecutive seasons from 2011 to 2013 at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. During this period, Sebastian Vettel triumphed in all three races, representing Red Bull Racing. Unfortunately, the event was removed from the calendar post-2013, primarily due to taxation, high expenses, and bureaucratic challenges.
The Buddh International Circuit was the pioneer in bringing international motorsport to India, debuting as the venue for the Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix in 2011.
Crafted by Hermann Tilke, the track received favorable reviews from drivers, positioning India as a potential fixture on the global motorsport stage. Regrettably, a tax disagreement cut Formula One's time short; following two more races, the Grand Prix was canceled for 2014 and ultimately eliminated from the schedule altogether.
Mandaviya reaffirmed the government's commitment to bolstering sports at all levels, inspiring the youth to explore careers in athletics.
Point of View
It is clear that the government's initiative to bring back Formula 1 is not just about motorsports; it reflects a broader ambition to position India prominently on the international sports landscape. This move could inspire a new generation of athletes and motorsport enthusiasts, enhancing the country's reputation globally.
NationPress
5 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the last Formula 1 race held in India?
The last Formula 1 race in India took place in 2013.
What issues caused the Formula 1 event to be suspended?
The suspension was due to taxation problems, high costs, and bureaucratic issues.
Where is the Buddh International Circuit located?
The Buddh International Circuit is located in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
Who won the Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix?
Sebastian Vettel won all three races during the Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix from 2011 to 2013.
Is the government planning to host other motorsport events?
Yes, the government is also planning to bring events like MotoGP to India.
