Kamal Ghorui
There has been fresh buzz around the return of Formula 1 to India, with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya stating that the country could host a race as early as 2027. Speaking during a recent media interaction, he said efforts are underway to bring the sport back, with the Buddh International Circuit being the proposed venue. He also hinted that a MotoGP race could take place 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 remains an important market with a strong fanbase, a return in 2027 is unlikely. It added that planning and hosting a race involves multiple complex factors and typically requires significant time and coordination.
The Buddh 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 taxation issues, as Formula 1 was classified as entertainment rather than a sport at the time.There now appears to be renewed interest in reviving top-tier motorsport in India. The Adani Group is reportedly set to acquire assets of the Jaypee Group, which include the Buddh International Circuit. The group has expressed intent to explore opportunities around bringing Formula 1 back to the country.In terms of other major motorsports events held recently, MotoGP debuted in the country in 2023 with support from the Uttar Pradesh government, but did not continue beyond its first edition. Similarly, the Hyderabad ePrix was held in early 2023 but was later dropped from the calendar following a change in the state government.
