Recently, India has been quite eager to stage a Formula One race. The Indian Olympic Association was pleased to receive a letter from the administration of F1 permitting them to bring the race in 2010. But it was not easy for India as the Indian administration was asked to meet several difficult standards which mainly included the financial strategy. Though, the deadline to meet these conditions has been extended, said Mr. Suresh Kalmadi, the president of Indian Olympic Association.

The preparations to host the first Formula One Grand Prix have already been begun. The management has approved of two sites, both situated at the outskirts of Delhi, but the final choice is in the hands of the IOA, being the race promoters. One of the sites is near to the industrial area of Gurgaon and the other is in Greater Noida. The contract for the building of track has not yet been given to any business group and the IOA has invited the Delhi government to intervene in the decision.

Today, India is rated as a rising hi-tech country. The progress of India has been on a considerable elevation by the addition of several vehicle manufacturers. The country has got potential reasons for having Formula One racing, as Formula One is a technology driven sport. The commercial viability of the racing track has to be increased by adding up various industrial parks, special economic zones, etc to it.

An investment of round about Rs350-500 crores is required to set up the whole infrastructure. But the amount is worth investing, as India will become one of those privileged countries who can boast of having Formula One circuits. The best part of having formula one in India is its annual conduct unlike World Cup and Olympics which take place only once in four years.

The viewership of Formula One was found to exceed majority of sports in the world. The media was surprised to have a huge viewership of around 70 million when Formula One was broadcasted live on Doordarshan. It further rose to 91.3 million when Mr. Ecclestone, Formula One boss, was interviewed live from the race track at Silverstone. The craze of Formula One among the Indians just shows itself.

Narain Karthikevan and Karun Chandok have sparkled and shined for India and have also increased the pride of having Formula One in India. India is sure to overcome all the hurdles which may come in establishing the Formula One racing track. So let us keep our fingers crossed and wait for the BIG event……