India Establishes Task Force to Revitalize Formula One Racing

The Indian government has established a task force under NITI Aayog to assess the revival of Formula One racing in the country. This initiative aims to tackle challenges and develop a strategic roadmap for motorsports, including evaluating the economic and tourism benefits of hosting events. The task force, chaired by Yugal Kishore Joshi, includes various government officials and industry representatives. With a focus on sustainable development and potential Public-Private Partnerships, the task force seeks to bring back the Indian Grand Prix to the Buddh International Circuit, which last hosted the event in 2013. The revival of motorsports in India could significantly impact the economy and tourism sector.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 15, 2026, 15:28 IST

Government Initiates Task Force for F1 Revival

The Indian government has set up a task force under the NITI Aayog to explore the revival and enhancement of Formula One racing and the overall motorsports landscape in the nation. This initiative aims to pinpoint challenges and create a unified strategy for the sector's growth.

The task force will conduct an in-depth evaluation of taxation issues and other obstacles hindering the advancement of motorsports in India. Additionally, it will analyze the potential international, economic, tourism, and investment advantages of hosting motorsport events, while also identifying essential priorities, infrastructure needs, and operational requirements for sustainable sector development.

Moreover, the task force will look into the necessity for a comprehensive policy framework and suggest appropriate Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models to foster the growth of motorsports.

Composition of the Task Force

The task force, which is focused on assessing the feasibility of hosting a Formula One Grand Prix, is led by Yugal Kishore Joshi, PD (YAS) at NITI Aayog. Its members include Kunal, Joint Secretary from the Department of Sports; a Joint Secretary from the Department of Commerce; a Joint Secretary from the Ministry of Tourism; representatives from the CBIC and CBDT, Department of Revenue; officials from the Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra State Governments; representatives from Buddh International Circuit (BIC) and Madras International Circuit (MIC); the President/Secretary General of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI); a Technical Expert appointed by FMSCI; and any additional members selected by the Chairperson as needed.

Reflecting on the Indian Grand Prix

The government is contemplating the return of Formula 1 to the Buddh International Circuit, nearly thirteen years after the last race took place at this venue. Earlier this year, Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya visited the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) in Greater Noida, indicating possible plans to revive the Indian Grand Prix.

The Indian Grand Prix was hosted at the Buddh International Circuit from 2011 to 2013, with Sebastian Vettel from Germany winning all three races for Red Bull Racing. The inaugural race, which occurred on October 30, 2011, was the 17th round of the 2011 F1 season, and Vettel emerged victorious. Since 2013, the Grand Prix has not been featured on the Formula One calendar. Additionally, India hosted a MotoGP event at the Buddh International Circuit in September 2023, but races have not returned since.