India Targets Formula 1 Return by 2028 Through New Government Task Force
The Indian government has launched a dedicated task force to facilitate the return of Formula 1 by 2028. In collaboration with FMSCI, the initiative aims to host international events like MotoGP and WRC while fostering the growth of Indian motorsports and local driving talent.
Highlights
- •The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has formed a task force to bring Formula 1 back to India by 2028.
- •Discussions are underway to host rounds of the World Rally Championship and MotoGP as part of a wider motorsports revival plan.
- •FMSCI is collaborating with government officials to foster domestic talent and improve national motorsport infrastructure.
- •The recent FMSCI Annual Awards in Bengaluru celebrated 137 winners, including international achievers in WRC3 and global women’s racing.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has officially established a dedicated task force to evaluate and oversee the future of motorsports in the nation. This strategic move is primarily focused on the ambitious goal of bringing Formula 1 racing back to India by the conclusion of 2028. Government officials are actively coordinating with relevant stakeholders to ensure the infrastructure and organizational requirements for such a high-profile event are met.
Strategic Roadmap for Motorsports Revival
The Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) is playing a pivotal role in this initiative. During recent discussions in New Delhi, FMSCI President Arindam Ghosh met with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State Raksha Khadse. The dialogue explored a comprehensive vision for the future, which includes not only the return of Formula 1 but also hosting premier global events like a round of the World Rally Championship (WRC) and MotoGP by 2028.
Beyond hosting major global circuits, the FMSCI is emphasizing the necessity of nurturing local talent. The recent engagement with government leadership highlighted the potential for scaling the domestic motorsport ecosystem to support Indian drivers competing on the world stage. This multifaceted approach aims to integrate global championship hosting with robust national development programs.
Celebrating Excellence in Indian Motorsports
The commitment to growing the sport was further underscored at the FMSCI Annual Awards ceremony held in Bengaluru. The event recognized a wide array of achievements, with 137 trophies presented across 17 distinct categories for both four-wheeler and two-wheeler disciplines. This celebration served to honor not only the racers but also the promoters and sponsors essential to the industry.
Several emerging stars were lauded for their dedication to the sport. Karting champions such as Arshi Gupta, Eshanth Vengatesan, and Ishaan Madesh were honored with FIA President’s Medals. Furthermore, the ceremony highlighted significant international milestones, including the performance of Naveen Puligilla and Musa Sherif, who became the first Indian duo to achieve a WRC3 podium finish at Rally Saudi Arabia.
Additional recognitions were given to Aishwarya Pissay for her historic win in the FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship in Portugal. The event also acknowledged the efforts of technical officials and volunteers, including Ashwinkumar Pandit, CV Srinath, and Gautam Shanthappa, whose contributions remain vital to the successful execution of motorsport events across the country.
