The Indian Grand Prix, a prestigious event in the world of Formula One racing, was a part of the FIA Formula One World Championship calendar for three consecutive years – 2011, 2012, and 2013. However, due to tax disputes between the FIA and the Uttar Pradesh government, the event was discontinued.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in bringing back the Indian Grand Prix. The successful hosting of the Hyderabad ePrix and MotoGP Bharat at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, has sparked conversations about reintroducing Formula One to India. Senior officials at the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) have revealed that prelim talks are underway to reintroduce F1 at the BIC in 2025.
PM Modi to bring back Indian Grand Prix to India
The recent developments seem to be very much sparking the interest among Indian F1 enthusiasts. Famous British F1 Journalist Joe Saward has opined that India could see the return of FI with PM Narendra Modi keen to organize it in his home state Gujarat.
He posted on his blog, “The plans for India offer F1 some potential, but there are things that need to be sorted out. It is a very attractive market from a demographic point of view but F1 enthusiasm for the idea is well under control, although the sport is working on expanding the Indian fan base, with low-cost F1TV availability and a big push into the Indian markets with social media.”
Talking about PM’s push for a race in Gujrat: The race is supported by the Indian Prime Minister Prime Minister Narendra Modi and, if all goes to plan, it will take place in the Gujarat region, his home province. He is currently going through national elections but is expected to win a third five-year term. The problem is that there are believed to still be legal actions going in relation to the last Indian GP – 11 years ago. This took place at the Buddh International Circuit in Uttar Pradesh, but claims for taxes and equipment being seized by the authorities, mean that F1 is wary of getting involved in India again unless conditions are different and not involving bureaucrats. So it is not just about building a track,” Joe Saward mentioned in his newsletter.
F1 returning to India after successful MOTO GP ? 😳#F1 #IndianGrandPrix #Formula1 pic.twitter.com/QpjyaVjqCz
— SportsIndiaShow (@SportsIndiaShow) April 25, 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support could be instrumental in expediting the return of the Indian Grand Prix. PM Modi, known for his visionary leadership and commitment to promoting India on the global stage, could leverage his influence to resolve the previous tax disputes and facilitate the return of this high-profile event.
PM Modi’s support for the return of the Indian Grand Prix would align with his broader vision of promoting India as a global sports destination. It would also boost the country’s image in the international community, showcasing India’s ability to host world-class sporting events.
Moreover, the return of the Indian Grand Prix would have significant economic benefits. It would attract international tourists, generate employment, and stimulate local economies. It would also inspire young Indians to pursue careers in motorsports, fostering a new generation of Indian racing talent.
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