Formula 1 has ruled out an Indian Grand Prix in 2027 despite the government's optimism about its return. On Monday, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya suggested a possible return of F1 to the Buddh International Circuit in Uttar Pradesh's Greater Noida. However, F1 officials said that this timeline is unrealistic.
“While India remains a key market for Formula 1's continued growth, with an amazing, passionate fanbase, we won't be racing there in 2027. Organising and delivering races are complex matters that take time,” F1 officials were quoted as saying by Autocar.
ALSO READ: F1's 2026 Rulebook Under Fire: FIA Scrambles To Fix Clipping Chaos In Emergency Energy Overhaul
Buddh International Circuit hosted Formula 1 from 2011 to 2013. The organisation and infrastructure of the venue also earned widespread praise from the sports community.
However, the Uttar Pradesh government classified F1 as entertainment instead of sports, imposing heavy taxes. These financial and regulatory hurdles made the event unviable, forcing its exit after just three successful editions.
However, Mandaviya expressed optimism that the country will be able to attract popular sports again soon. “There will be an F1 race in India in 2027. The first race will be at Buddha International Circuit,” he said.
Speaking to the media, the minister added that the government is working to make India viable for Formula 1, exploring incentives such as tax reimbursements.
“For instance, if the entertainment tax cannot be altogether repealed, we will try to ensure that reimbursements are provided to incentivise the project for the organisers. Discussions are ongoing on this issue. It is an interministerial matter, and we are trying our best to make it attractive for Formula 1,” he explained.
Hindustan Times reported that Mandaviya has been actively engaging with the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India and other stakeholders to resolve issues and reopen the Buddh International Circuit.
Meanwhile, Jaiprakash Associates Limited founder Jaiprakash Gaur, who formerly owned the Buddh International Circuit, has officially endorsed the Adani Group's successful bid to acquire the beleaguered company.
Last month, the National Company Law Tribunal approved Adani Enterprises' Rs 14,535 crore resolution plan for the debt-laden firm, marking a monumental win for the Adani conglomerate over rival bidders like the Vedanta Group.
ALSO READ | Max Verstappen's Race Engineer Gianpiero Lambiase Set To Leave Red Bull To Join McLaren: Report
In a public statement released Thursday, Gaur confirmed his full backing of the transition. The founder noted he has every confidence that under the leadership of Gautam Adani, the Jaiprakash Associates legacy will be carried forward with renewed energy.
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.