Excitement Grows for Racing's Return to Buddh International Circuit After 13 Years

The Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida is buzzing with excitement as racing returns after a 13-year absence. Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman of Racing Promotions Pvt. Ltd., expresses optimism for the revival of Formula One in India, highlighting the government's efforts to support motorsports. The Indian Racing Festival marks a significant milestone, featuring FIA-level racing events. With calls for increased government backing, the future of motorsports in India looks promising. Drivers share their enthusiasm for the circuit's potential to host major events like MotoGP and F1, making it a pivotal moment for Indian motorsport enthusiasts.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 31, 2026, 23:54 IST

A Historic Moment for Indian Motorsport

By Vipul Kashyap

Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], October 31: Akhilesh Reddy, the Chairman and Managing Director of Racing Promotions Pvt. Ltd. (RPPL), celebrated the return of racing to the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) after a 13-year hiatus, calling it a "remarkable moment". He expressed hope for the revival of Formula One (F1) in India.

The Indian Racing Festival (IRF) marked the return of FIA-level racing to this iconic venue, featuring Round 4 of the F4 Indian Championship and Round 2 of the Indian Racing League (IRL) on October 31 and November 1.

With a length of 5.125 kilometers, BIC has a rich history in Indian motorsport, having previously hosted the Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix and MotoGP Bharat.

In an interview, Reddy shared his enthusiasm about the return of racing to BIC, emphasizing its significance. He mentioned that the government, along with Adani and Formula One officials, are actively collaborating to bring F1 back to India. Reddy believes that this revival will rekindle public interest in motorsports and expand RPPL's fan base.

"We are thrilled and overwhelmed that everything is progressing well, especially returning to BIC. It’s a joyous occasion for all of us," he stated.

Reddy further noted that the government and Adani are diligently working to facilitate the return of Formula One, which he believes would be beneficial for both the sport and the country. He expressed anticipation for the influx of F1 fans and the resurgence of motorsport viewership.

He emphasized the need for increased government support for motorsports, suggesting that stakeholders would appreciate receiving at least half of the backing that cricket enjoys in India.

"We require more assistance from the government. If motorsports could receive even 50% of the support that cricket does, it would make a significant difference for everyone involved," he remarked.

In September, the government established a task force under NITI Aayog to explore the revival and growth of Formula One and the broader motorsports landscape in India, focusing on identifying challenges and creating a strategic plan for the sector.

The Indian Grand Prix was previously held at BIC from 2011 to 2013, with Sebastian Vettel from Germany winning all three races for Red Bull Racing.

South African driver Raoul Hyman shared his excitement about racing at BIC, stating it was a long-held dream to compete there. He expressed optimism for the return of MotoGP and Formula One, noting that the circuit's facilities are ready for such events.

"It’s a fantastic feeling. This circuit is amazing, and I’m grateful to finally have the chance to race here. I hope to see MotoGP and Formula One return; the facilities are prepared, and the track is top-notch," he said.

Indian racer Saishiva Sankaran also voiced strong support for the return of Formula One and MotoGP to BIC, calling it an ideal F1-grade track. He mentioned he would personally buy tickets to witness a Formula One race there.

"I would absolutely love to see F1 back here. I would buy tickets myself since I’ve never seen a live F1 race. This track is perfect for F1, and I believe both MotoGP and F1 should return. If I enjoyed driving here, I’m sure other drivers would too," he concluded.