There has been fresh buzz about Formula 1’s return to India, with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya saying the country could host a race as early as 2027. Speaking during a recent media interaction, he said that efforts are on to bring back the sport, with the Budh International Circuit as the proposed venue. He also hinted that there could be a MotoGP race before Formula 1 returns.
Is Formula 1 returning to India in 2027?
However, Formula 1 itself has commented on the 2027 timeline. In an official statement, as reported by Autocar India, the championship clarified that while India is an important market with a strong fan base, a return in 2027 is unlikely. She added that planning and hosting a race involves a number of complex factors and usually requires significant time and coordination.
The Budh International Circuit previously hosted the Indian Grand Prix for three consecutive years between 2011 and 2013. The race was eventually dropped from the F1 calendar. The main reason was tax issues, as Formula 1 was classified as entertainment rather than sport at the time.There seems to be renewed interest in reviving high-level motorsport in India now. The Adani Group is reportedly set to acquire Jaypee Group’s assets, including the Buddha International Circuit. The group has expressed its intention to explore opportunities to bring Formula 1 back to the country.In terms of other major motorsports events held recently, MotoGP debuted in the country in 2023 with the support of the Uttar Pradesh government, but did not go beyond its first edition. Similarly, the Hyderabad E-Prix was scheduled to be held in early 2023 but was later dropped from the calendar after the change in state government.
