Formula 1 could return to India as soon as 2025

Formula 1 (F1) is a dynamic sport, having held races in 34 countries thus far, including India, which became iconic when Sebastian Vettel won his fourth and final title in 2013. After that, the circuit never made it back to the calendar due to various reasons. However, after MotoGP had a successful run at the Buddh International Circuit, discussions are reportedly underway for the return of Formula 1 to India.

Why did Formula 1 leave India?

While the exact reason for F1’s abrupt exit from India back in 2013 is still unclear, the roots of the issue lie in the political landscape of the time. This is because the Buddh International Circuit, situated in the National Capital Region and under the jurisdiction of the Uttar Pradesh government, faced a challenge from the then Chief Minister, Akhilesh Yadav, as he considered Formula 1 more as entertainment than a sport and imposed taxes on the event accordingly.

This departure from the tax exemptions, coupled with the unresolved customs fees for engines and tires, created financial hurdles that ultimately led F1 to exit India.

The success of MotoGP could play a big role

Although not confirmed, the success of MotoGP has reignited hopes, as negotiations are in process, and discussions with F1 organizers will soon commence. Moreover, the fact that many Indian two-wheeler companies seized the opportunity to showcase their latest offerings, and the Uttar Pradesh Government was impressed by the level of enthusiasm from both participants and manufacturers is also a positive indicator. Therefore, if all goes well, the Buddh International Circuit could once again witness the high-octane drama of Formula 1 by 2025.

“There’s more that can be done in India, including a return of F1. India is important not because I am here, not because I am the president. India and China both have the manufacturers, and both have the numbers. We have not scratched the surface yet. We are talking about 2.8 billion people in these two countries, and we have less than 8000 competitive licenses,” said FIA Mohammed Ben Sulayem.