Karun Chandhok Relives F1 Glory at Buddh International Circuit

An 'Unforgettable Experience' for Chandhok

Karun Chandhok, the former Indian Formula 1 racer, expressed that driving Sebastian Vettel's Red Bull RB8 at the Buddh International Circuit was an unforgettable experience, labeling it as a 'very special day.'

The iconic RB8, which Vettel piloted to victory at the F1 Indian Grand Prix in Delhi NCR in 2012, played a crucial role in his historic World Drivers' and Constructors Championship double. The Buddh International Circuit, which hosted its inaugural Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix in 2011, is significant in the history of Indian motorsport. Chandhok's chance to drive Vettel's championship-winning car allowed him to reconnect with the legacy of one of F1's most celebrated vehicles while honoring his ties to his home track.

Reflecting on the moment, Chandhok remarked, 'As I stepped out to the pits, I felt incredibly fortunate in a nation of 1.4 billion. Returning to my home circuit and driving the car that triumphed here was a unique moment, and I consider myself very lucky.'

He further noted that the blend of the historic vehicle and his home circuit made the experience particularly enjoyable. 'I had a fantastic time on an amazing racetrack in one of F1's greatest cars, and it was a lot of fun. This day was truly special.'

Potential Return of Indian Grand Prix

Recently, discussions have emerged about the government's interest in reinstating Formula 1 at the Buddh International Circuit, nearly thirteen years after the last race took place. Sources from the Sports Ministry indicated earlier this month that the Formula 1 event in Greater Noida could soon return. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya's recent visit to the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) hints at plans to revive the Indian Grand Prix.

In response to inquiries about the revival of Formula 1 in India, Chandhok welcomed the news, calling it an 'encouraging' initial step. He stated, 'It would be fantastic to see the Indian Grand Prix return. I've only seen the media reports, but it's a positive first step.'

Chandhok acknowledged that while the initial enthusiasm is promising, numerous logistical and regulatory hurdles must be addressed before the race can be included in the Formula 1 calendar. 'Next, we need to navigate funding, government legislation, securing a calendar slot, and upgrading infrastructure. There will be significant improvements needed at the Buddh Circuit, but the first step is having the will to make it happen. I'm very encouraged and would love to see the Indian Grand Prix return,' he added.

Red Bull Moto Jam Details

In other news, Arvid Lindblad, of Indian descent and visiting India for the third time, will headline the Red Bull Moto Jam on March 1. This event will also showcase Abdo Feghali, a renowned drift athlete from Lebanon and Guinness World Record holder for the longest continuous drift (11.18 km), along with Aras Gibieza, a former professional bike racer known for his iconic stunts, and Abdulrahman Alraeesi, a professional drift and stunt driver from the UAE. Other participants include freestyle motocross rider Sebastian Westberg, Russian Supercross champion Roman Karymov, and UK-born freestyle motocross rider Greg Rowbottom, who has a strong rapport with audiences.

While the RB8 will be the main attraction on March 1 at the India Expo Centre, other vehicles set to thrill motorsport enthusiasts include the BMW M3 e92, Triumph Street Triple, Land Cruiser 100, Kawasaki KX 450, and KTM 450SX.