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F1s return to India by 2027 looks unlikely despite government push.
Formula One is unlikely to return to India anytime soon. (Credit: AFP)
A return of Formula 1 to India by 2027 is increasingly unlikely, even as the government pushes for a revival of the high-profile race. News agency PTI‘s recent report, which cited sources in the F1 authorities, indicates that discussions are still at a preliminary stage and far from a firm agreement.
The report said India remains an attractive and growing market for the sport, but there is no concrete progress toward securing a slot on the calendar. The championship, owned by Liberty Media, already operates a packed 24-race scheduleleaving limited scope for new venues. Given the intense global competition to host races, India faces a challenging road despite renewed interest.
“2027 is highly unlikely, but India is a market of interest. We have many amazing fans in the country but we are not close to an agreement,” the cited source said.
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently stated that efforts are underway to bring Formula 1 back, with the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida identified as the preferred venue. The circuit previously hosted the Indian Grand Prix from 2011 to 2013 before it was dropped due to tax disputes and bureaucratic hurdles.
Mandaviya said the government is actively working to resolve those issues, particularly around taxation, which had made the event financially unviable for organisers in the past. He added that at least three companies have shown interest in operating the circuit.
The Adani Group, which is in the process of acquiring assets of the debt-ridden Jaypee Group, including the track, has also expressed interest in reviving Formula 1 in India.
Despite these efforts, significant financial and logistical barriers remain. Hosting a Formula 1 race typically costs between Rs. 180-560 crore annually, making it a capital-intensive venture. Additionally, the sport’s calendar constraints and long-term agreements with existing venues complicate immediate expansion plans.
India’s recent struggles with sustaining global motorsport events also cast doubt over a quick return. The MotoGP event held in 2023 did not continue beyond its inaugural edition, while the Formula E race in Hyderabad was discontinued after just one season following a change in the state government.
April 13, 2026, 4:32 PM IST
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