There has been renewed momentum around bringing Formula 1 Return To India, with the Adani Group confirming that it is actively exploring plans to revive the Indian Grand Prix.
The development is linked to the conglomerate’s bid to acquire the Buddh International Circuit as part of its proposed takeover of debt-ridden Jaiprakash Associates Ltd (JAL).
The Buddh International Circuit, located in Greater Noida, previously hosted the Indian Grand Prix from 2011 to 2013 before it was dropped from the Formula 1 calendar.
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Adani Group’s Interest in Buddh International Circuit
The Adani Group is currently leading the bid to acquire Jaiprakash Associates, which owns the Buddh International Circuit. In November last year, the group secured majority approval from lenders for its Rs 14,535 crore takeover offer, which included a higher upfront payment compared to rival bidders.
Speaking at the 70th Foundation Day of the All India Management Association, Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd, confirmed his personal involvement in efforts to bring Formula 1 Return To India.
“I’m very excited because with Jaypee, obviously, the Buddh circuit comes as part of the deal. I’m personally engaged in terms of bringing Formula 1 back to India,” he said.
A Track With Proven Global Credentials
The Buddh International Circuit hosted Formula 1 races for three consecutive seasons between 2011 and 2013. During that period, the track earned praise from teams, drivers and officials for its layout and facilities.
However, the Indian Grand Prix was discontinued mainly due to taxation issues. At the time, the Uttar Pradesh government classified Formula 1 as entertainment rather than a sport, resulting in higher taxes that made the event financially unviable.
Motorsports Activity Returns, But With Gaps
International motorsport returned to the Buddh International Circuit in 2023 when MotoGP made its India debut. Despite a three-year agreement with the Uttar Pradesh government, the championship has yet to return for a second edition, highlighting ongoing challenges in sustaining global racing events in the country.
Recent reports of Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya visiting the circuit have added to speculation about renewed government interest in high-profile motorsport events.
What It Would Take to Bring F1 Back
While optimism around Formula 1 Return To India is growing, significant hurdles remain. Hosting fees for Formula 1 races have increased sharply, with reports suggesting costs ranging between $70 million and $150 million per race.
The F1 calendar is also becoming increasingly crowded, with several established European circuits already rotating race slots. From 2026, venues such as Zandvoort will exit the calendar, while others like Spa-Francorchamps and Barcelona will alternate hosting duties.
Despite these challenges, India remains an attractive market. According to Formula 1, the country had a fan base of around 79 million as of December 2025, making it one of the fastest-growing motorsport audiences globally.
The Road Ahead
If the Adani Group’s acquisition of the Buddh International Circuit is finalised, it could open the door for fresh commercial negotiations with Formula 1. However, a successful Formula 1 Return To India will depend heavily on government backing, long-term financial commitments and alignment with F1’s global strategy.
For now, discussions remain at an exploratory stage, with no confirmed timelines for Formula 1 Return To India.
Note: Details in this report are based on official statements and publicly available information at the time of publication. Timelines, approvals and final outcomes may change depending on regulatory, commercial and contractual developments.
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Raj Prajapati is a senior automobile content writer at How2Guidess.in with over 3 years of experience in auto news, vehicle launches, comparisons, and EV updates. With a background in Computer Science & Engineering, he focuses on research-based, clear, and reader-friendly automobile content.