Formula 1 could finally be heading back to India, and this time, things seem more serious than ever. After more than a decade away from the country, the Government of India has started working on a plan to bring the Indian Grand Prix back by 2028.
The last Formula 1 race in India was held in 2013 at the Buddh International Circuit near Greater Noida. The track hosted three races between 2011 and 2013 and quickly became a favourite among fans and drivers. However, due to tax disputes and other legal issues, Formula 1 eventually left India.
Now, the government wants to change that.
According to Reuters, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has already held meetings with the Adani Group, the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), and other government departments to discuss how Formula 1 can return.
One of the biggest reasons for optimism is the Adani Group’s involvement. The company is currently in the process of taking over Jaiprakash Associates, the original developer of the Buddh International Circuit. Reports also suggest that Karan Adani is personally interested in bringing Formula 1 back to India, which could give the project a major boost.
To avoid the problems that forced Formula 1 to leave in 2013, the government is planning to create a special task force. Its job will be to solve tax issues, simplify approvals, and make sure India has a clear system for hosting Formula 1 in the future.
Formula 1 is also open to returning. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has previously said that India is an important market with a rapidly growing fan base. Thanks to streaming platforms, social media, and Netflix’s Drive to Survive, Formula 1 has become more popular than ever among young Indian fans.
Nothing has been officially confirmed yet, and 2028 is still only a target. But for the first time in years, there is real movement behind the scenes. If everything goes according to plan, Formula 1 could finally make its long-awaited return to India after a 15-year gap.
