HYDERABAD: It has been a while since India hosted a Formula One Grand Prix at the resplendent Buddh International Circuit (BIC) in Noida, near the capital, with the last one taking place way back in 2013. And it might be a while before the Ferraris and McLarens whizz past the country’s motorsport fans, as there seem to be lots of impediments in the way, with the major one being that of promoter Jaypee Group’s debt-ridden recent past.
However, Jean Todt, the chief of the world motorsports governing body, had some positive things to say about BIC here on Friday. “The circuit could be used for many other popular motorsport events, like the Touring Car Championship, which is very popular. The track is so beautiful,” the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) president, who was in the city as chief guest of the FMSCI (Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India) awards function to honour the 2016 national champions, said.
When Todt was queried about the lack of international motorsport stars from India, he coaxed everyone to look at the positives. “It would be presumptuous to say that all of that can change quickly, but India already has such a strong team (Force India) in Formula One. They’ve been performing well,” the septuagenarian replied.
“Motorsports is well-structured here (India). We’ll continue to support the FMSCI,” he added.
The Frenchman brought some respite to the motorsport fans who have lately been deprived of international racing events by hinting about India hosting Formula E races in the near future, and then talked about Mahindra Racing, the team from India which has performed commendably in a variety of motosports events, especially Formula E. “India can definitely host Formula E races, and you have a strong team in the shape of Mahindra,” he said.
Earlier, newly elected FMSCI president Akbar Ebrahim said the perception about the sport is changing. “Now, boys and girls from all over the country are excitedly participating in races,” he told Express. He also praised women participants.
vishal@newindianexpress.com