Karun Chandhok Relives F1 Glory at Buddh International Circuit
A Memorable Day for Karun Chandhok
Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], February 26: Former Indian Formula 1 racer Karun Chandhok described his experience of driving Sebastian Vettel's Red Bull RB8 at the Buddh International Circuit as truly unforgettable, labeling it a "very special day."
The iconic RB8, which was piloted by Vettel to victory at the F1 Indian Grand Prix in Delhi NCR in 2012, played a significant role in his achievement of both the World Drivers' and Constructors' Championships that year.
Since hosting its inaugural Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix in 2011, the Buddh International Circuit has become a landmark in 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 circuit.
Reflecting on the moment, Chandhok expressed, "As I stepped out to the pits, I felt incredibly fortunate to be in a country of 1.4 billion people. Returning to my home circuit and driving the car that triumphed here was a remarkable moment, and I consider myself very lucky."
He further emphasized that the combination of the historic vehicle and his familiar track made the experience exceptionally enjoyable. "I had a fantastic time on a wonderful racetrack in one of the greatest F1 cars, and it was a lot of fun. This was indeed a very special day," he added.
Recently, there have been discussions about the possibility of reviving Formula 1 at the Buddh International Circuit, nearly thirteen years after the last race took place there.
Sources from the Sports Ministry indicated earlier this month that the Indian Grand Prix in Greater Noida could be making a comeback. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya's recent visit to the Buddh International Circuit hinted at potential plans for the event's revival.
When asked about the media reports regarding the return of Formula 1 to India, Chandhok expressed his support, calling it an "encouraging" initial step.
In an interview, 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 interest is promising, several logistical and regulatory hurdles must be addressed before the race can be reinstated on the Formula 1 calendar.
"Next, we need to tackle funding, government legislation, securing a calendar slot, and upgrading the infrastructure. The Buddh Circuit will require significant enhancements, but the first step is having the willingness to make it happen. I'm very encouraged and would love to see the Indian Grand Prix back," he remarked.
In other news, Arvid Lindblad, an Indian-origin racer, is set to headline the Red Bull Moto Jam on March 1 during his third visit to India.
The Red Bull Moto Jam will also showcase renowned drift athlete Abdo Feghali from Lebanon, who holds a Guinness World Record for the longest continuous drift (11.18 km), along with other notable figures in motorsports, including Aras Gibieza, Abdulrahman Alraeesi, Sebastian Westberg, Roman Karymov, and Greg Rowbottom.
While the RB8 will take center stage on March 1 at the India Expo Centre, other exciting vehicles like the BMW M3 e92, Triumph Street Triple, Land Cruiser 100, Kawasaki KX 450, and KTM 450SX will also be featured to thrill motorsport enthusiasts.