India’s clout in World of Motor Sports is surely increasing at a fast pace. After years of wait Indian flag is surely to make its mark in next chapter of F1 Championships this year around. India was on F1 maps due to heroics of Narayan Karthikeyan and Karun Chandok, however it was lacking support and fanbase. Then came “Man of Happier Times” – liquor barron and aviator – Vijay Mallya who has truly changed F1 scenario of the country. His buying of Spyker F1 team in october alongside Michiel Mol. Now more and more people are turning towards this high adrenaline sport so far restricted among rich nd devoted motor sport fans. How successful this venture will be will be seen in months to come. This development followed announcement of Indian Grand Prix by year 2010 near Noida which will certainly boost F1 viewership in India. Today Giancarlo Fisichella’s name was finalised for the second seat primarily because of the experience he brings to the team. The Renault driver will be partnering Adrian Sutil, who drove for Force India’s earlier avatar – Spyker. He also drove for the team during winter practice sessions. Emergence of an Indian Team can also mean opportunity for Indian pair Karthekayen and Chandok in years to come.
However holding F1 in India is a mammoth task.
- F1 involves big sums of money and for setting up F1 infrastructure in India lots of investment will be required both from Private and Public sector. Barring TATA and Kingfischer only few are involved in sponsering Motor Sports and apprehension of other players must be removed soon.
-India lacks infrastructure at present and infact no airport in India can fulfill the F1 requirements. Each team travels in several jumbo jets and in total airports are required to handle nearly 40-45 jumbos at same time. However organizers are claiming that renewated Delhi airport will be able to overcome this problem. But it is a well known fact that Indian contractors delay projects by 2-3 years.
- Also a big problem in India is that Sports are synonymous with Cricket. This mentallity of Indian viewer must be quickly changed. Indian owned F1 team will surely help the cause. Mallya can furthur popularize the sport in country by giving opportunities to Indian drivers once the team is settled.
- Problem is furthur aggrevated by lack of Five & Seven star Hotels around NCR.
- Internal fued and lack of co-ordiantion among various ministries must also be held to bring this plan to light. Some people also accused Surash Kalmadi of taking credit for procuring F1 deal. Both the Motorsports Association of India and the Federation of Motorsports Clubs of India have expressed some scepticism. The latter’s president, Rajat Mazumbar, has said that “The only authorised body that can run motorsports in the country is ours” despite the fact the deal has been signed with the Indian Olympic Association.
However inspite of these complications involving India in F1 is a welcome step for FIA. India has a very large fanbase alongside Business potential which if properly tapped can take revenue and popularity to new hights. Selection of site in NCR is also a welcome step as New Delhi is one of the most well connected cities of India. Also 2010 Commenwealth Games will provide with great infrastructural support to F1 race in the region.
A lot will depend on how next season unfolds and success of the team. Selection of experienced driver like Fisichella will boost the morale of Team ForceIndia. Till then just wait for Australian Grand Prix on March 14th.
